Kansas City, Missouri; its history and its people 1808-1908

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KANSAS CITY

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Its History and Its People

1800=1908

BY CARRIE WESTLAKE WHITNEY

Illustrated

Vol. II

CHICAGO

THE S. J. CLARKE PUBLISHING CO.

1908

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Trihl NEW )u..\i
PUBLIC LIBRARY

ASTOR7LENOX AND
TILDEN FOUNDATIONS
R 1919 L

THE Mii-W YOPK
-ij BUG LIBRARY

ASTOR, LENOX

1 I D': N FOUN'»ATIONS|

R. T. VAN HORN.

BIOGRAPHICAL

ROBERT THOMPSON VAN HORN.

Robert Thompson Van Plorn, journalist, soldier and statesman, was
born in what is now East Mahoning, Indiana county, Pennsylvania, May
19, 1824, a son of Henry and Elizabeth (Thompson) Van Horn. His
paternal grandparents were Isaiah and Dorcas (Logan) Van Horn, of Bucks
county and later of Indiana county, Pennsylvania, while his maternal grand-
parents were Robert and Mary (Cannon) Thompson, of Ireland. On the
paternal side he is of Dutch descent, the first representative of the family
in America, Jan Cornelissen (John, the son of Cornelius), having emigrated
from Hoorn, Holland, and settled at New Amsterdam (New York) in 1645.
One of his descendants, Christian Barentsin Van Horn, settled at Communi-
paw. New Jersey, in 1711, from which branch of the family Colonel Van
Horn is directlv descended.

On his mother's side he is of Scotch-Irish ancestry, his maternal grand-
parents having come from County Londonderry, Ireland, to America, land-
ing at Philadelphia in 1789 and afterward removing to what is noAV Rayne
township, Indiana county, Pennsylvania.

His great-grandfather, Henry Van Horn, was captain of a company
of Pennsylvania troops in the Revolutionary army and died in the service,
while his grandfather, Isaiah Van Horn, served in the same company until
the end of the war.

His father, who was born in Bucks county, Pennsylvania, in 1788,
was a farmer by occupation and passed away in 1877. His mother, whose
life span covered the years between 1788 and 1858, was a native of Ireland
and did much by her influence in shaping the active virtues of her son's
life. They were married in Indiana county, Pennsylvania, in 1814, and
Robert Thompson wa.s the fifth child and second son of the family of seven
children, of whom four were sons.

Reared on the paternal farm, the educational opportunities of R. T.
Van Horn were limited to a few months' attendance during the winter at a

6 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

subscription school, where he learned reading, writing, arithmetic and a lit-
tle geography but grannnar was not then taught in schools of that section
of Pennsylvania. At the age of fifteen he Ijecanie an apprentice in the office
of the Indiana (Pa.) Register, where he remained for four years, master-
ing the i)rinter's trade and at the same time acquiring, through industrious
reading, a generous store of information. From 1843 to 1855 he worked a^
a journeyman printer on newspapers in Pennsylvania, New^ York, Ohio and
Indiana and at intervals edited and published a country journal. Meanwhile
he varied his occupation by boating for a time on the Erie canal, steam-
boating during two seasons, as he found employment, on the Ohio, Wabash
and Missi.ssippi rivers, and acting at one time as a clerk on a river steamer,
deriving from the latter position the title of captain, which clung to him
until his Civil war sen'ice. During that period he also studied law in the
office of William Ranks, of Indiana, Pennsjdvania, and of Hon. T. A.
Plants, of Meigs county, Ohio, with whom he was engaged in legal practice
for a short time and who, twenty years later, was his fellow congressman.

On July 31, 1855, he located in Kan.sas City, Missouri, where he has
since resided, devoting a lifetime of strenuous and successful effort to the
interests of this city. The following October he purchased the Enterprise,
a small weekly ];)a])er which had been launched but a few months before
and wa.» then on the point of suspension, paying for the journal his entire
cash capital of two hundred and fifty dollars and incurring a debt of like
amount, of which, however, he was afterward freely discharged by the
fctockholders in recognition of his ability, valuable service and fidelity to
local interests. On its fir.<t anniversary thereafter the paper was changed to
the Kansas City lournal and in June, 1858, developed into a daily paper.
and for three years after purchasing the Journal ]Mr. Van Horn himself
performed much of the labor of type-setting and press work, as well as of
editing. In hi> lunids the .Journal became the promoter of all local enter-
prises, advocatinti, tlu-onuh its columns not only the bading industries of
Kansas City but cvci-y trunk line of railway now reaching the city before a
locomotive (-uiic into .-iuht. l^'i^om the l^eginniug it was the moldcr of local
enterprise and gave ins})iration to its activities, and it was a recognized
power in attracting poj)ulation not only to the city but to all the outlying
region. During the whole of its existence it ha- b.'cn the leading commercial
and political organ west of St. Louis. Elevat(>(l in tone and sagacious in direct-
ing j>ublic sentiment and jtarty jiolicy. it ha> Keen an ini])ort:uit factor in de-
veloping; the wonderful resource- of tlie new we-t. 'IMu'ougli its columns
ihc mind of the editor was everywhei'e manifest in editorials for the im-
provement of Kan.sas City, urging the citizens to build up the center of
mountain ;uiil pi'nirie eomiiK rcc. mid every editorial was o]")timistic, encour-
aging ;ui<l .-tiniulatinu and entirely IVce fi'om sarcasm and ])itterness. Dur-
ing the ]»olitical cani|iai^n of iSdO and ))i'ior thereto the Joui-nal had been
a conservative democratic pa]iei-. oppo.-ed Id ilie extreme sensational views
of both the north and th.- .-outli. -u|i|>oiiiiio Mi-. Douglas for the presidency.
Upon tlie outbreak of the Civil wai\ however, it d':'clared unqualified attach-
ment to tlie T'nion and in JSCl contended for the reelection of Lincoln,

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 7

since which time it has been a steadfastly republican journal. In 1897
Colonel Yan Horn retired after forty-one years' control of the paper, hav-
ing directed its conduct even during his long period of congressional service,
and at the same time wrote much of its editorial matter.

In 1856 an organization wa.s formed, under the name of the Kansas
City ^\ssociation for Public Improvement, of which Mr. Xau Horn was an
originator and which later became the Chamber of Commerce. Shortly
afterward he was elected alderman and in 1857 appointed postmaster of
this city, serving as such until the beginning of the Civil war.

In April, 1861, when the first blow was delivered against the Union,
Mr. Yan Horn, a Douglas democrat, denounced the assault and appealed
to all good citizens to aid in supporting the government. He was selected
as the Union candidate for the mayoralty and elected by a decided majority
over Dr. G. M. B. Mauglis, a secessionist, which election is significant in
that it saved Kansas City to the Union, being the only city in the state
where a municipal election turned on the great issue of loyalty to the gen-
eral government. To defeat the purposes of the Union municipal author-
ities in Kansas City and elsewhere, the Missouri legislature dominated by
secessionists, passed a bill divesting the mayor of power to control the local
police and vesting that power in a board of police commissioners to be ap-
pointed by the governor, then Claiborne F. Jackson, at which critical
juncture Mayor Van Horn displayed practical patriotism, energy and cour-
age. Eepairing to St. Louis, he there met General Nathaniel Lyon and
Hon. Frank P. Blair, to whom he communicated his fears for the safety of
Kansas City and his desire that its loss should be averted, and in return he
was assured that assistance would be afforded at the earliest possible moment.

A few days later Kansas City was occupied by a small force of United
States troops from Fort Leavenworth, the officer in command being under
orders to recognize only Mayor Van Horn in the disposition and use of his
command. The latter, under authority of the Avar department, then re-
cruited what was known as ''Van Horn's Battalion of United States Reserve
Corps," the first organized Union force in ^lissouri outside of St. Louis,
which was mustered into the service of the United States under his com-
mand. He then assumed charge of the post, Captain Prince and his troops
retiring, and from that time until peace was restored Kansas City remained
in possession of the Union forces. Mayor Van Horn established a fortified
camp, known as Fort Union, at the southwest corner of Tenth and Central
streets, and instituted a rigid guard system and school for military instruc-
tion. Meanwhile the resident secessionists sought to embarrass him but his
fertility of resource effected their complete discomfiture. He ignored Gov-
ernor Jackson's police commissioners and on one occasion, in the exercise
of his own authority as mayor, quelled opposition by threat of using his own
troops as a United States officer.

The seizure by the Union troops of Kansas City on June 10, 1861,
only a few hours before a superior force of Secessionists had fixed to occupy
it, has never been realized as its importance warrants. This city has ever
been a strategic point in both commercial and military operations. Its

8 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

topography dominates the whole southwest. It was the objective of both
campaigns of General Sterling Price and had it been occupied by his army
in this incipient movement, the whole country south of the Missouri river,
if not all of the state, would have been dominated by the Confederate arms,
and Kansas and Iowa the theater of hostile operations — and rendering Fort
Leavenworth untenable, or in a state of siege — involving the task of recon-
quering Missouri. Military men have ever so recognized the absolute neces-
sity of holding Kansas City. And history records the evidence that the
initiation and accomplishment of this vital action was due to Colonel Van
Horn as a civil magistrate and a military commandant. The entire event
was unique as it was important and far-reaching in its effect and in its re-
sults.

On July 17, 1861, with two companies of his battalion he made an ex-
pedition southward and, near Harrisonville, skirmished with the enemy
under Colonel Duncan, whom he defeated, losing one man killed, and kill-
ing three of the enemy. In command of two companies of his own bat-
talion and two companies of Peabody's St. Joseph Battalion, he confronted
the army of General Price in its approach upon Lexington, Missouri (be-
ing attached to Colonel Mulligan's command), September 12, and in that
aftair. known as "the fight in the lane," and the bloodiest encounter of the
campaign, the enemy was driven back more than two miles, suffering con-
sideraVjle loss. AVith hi^ command he was engaged during the entire siege
and on tlio last day Avas severely wounded. After being exchanged his
battalion was made a part of the Twenty-fifth Missouri Infantry Regiment
and he was promoted to the lieutenant colonelcy. The regiment was then
a.«signed to the Army of the Tennessee and, with General B. M. Prentiss'
Division, took a conspicuous part in the d&sperate battle of Shiloh. The
brigade commander, Colonel Peabody, being killed, throughout the en-
gagement Colonel Van Horn commanded the regiment, which was part of
the brigade to receive the first Confederate onslaught, and had his horse
killed under him. In the operations against Corintli he acted for a time as
brigade coiiiiii;iii(ler and when the city was occupied, his regiment, which
had become proficient in engineering, was assigned to the duty of construct-
ing Batteries A to F, carrying on the Avork under the direction of the reg-
ular engineer officers. These works were the principal point of attack by
the Confederates the following October and their sneees~fnl defense gave the
vieti'vy (f» General Roseerans.

ICarly in 1863 Colonel \*an llorn'^ r^oiinent. greatly depleted through
the casualties of active service, was retnrned to Missouri for recruiting pur-
po.«es and later ordered to New Madrid, Missouri, to open a military road
throngli the New River Swamp, but the project Avas abandoned by order of
General Sdiofield after a personal reconnoi.ssance and adverse report by Colonel
Van Horn. In July the latter was assigned to duty as provost marshal on
the .staff of General Thomas Ewing, commanding the District of the
Border, tlie assignment being made by General Schofield at the urgent solic-
itation of many citizens of Jackson county, whose sympathies Avere aroused
by needless suffering imposed upon many through the execution of the

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 9

famous "Order No.. II." Intent upon the suppression of disloyalty and
with that faithful submission to superiors characteristic of the true soldier,
he executed his orders with firmness, his conduct during that distressing
period and in a position of peculiar responsibility being that of which only
the noblest of men could be capable. At the same time he mitigated the
severity of his orders to the extent of his pow-er, tempering his acts with for-
bearance, consideration and sympathy and in many cases aiding with sub-
sistence and assisting to new homes those w^ho had been dispossessed.

Early in 1864 Colonel Van Horn's regiment was consolidated with
Colonel Bissell's engineer regiment, which necessitated the discharge of su-
pernumerary officers, among whom was Colonel Van Horn, who was hon-
orably mustered out, Colonel Flad, the ranking colonel as well as a profes-
sional engineer, being retained in service.

Doiring the Price raid in October, 1864, Colonel Van Horn, then mayor
of Kansas City, was charged by General Curtis with the organization of the
militia and the construction of city fortifications and devoted himself ardu-
ously to his duties. As volunteer aide to General Curtis he witnessed the
battle of Westport and the defeat of the Confederate forces.

In political life Colonel Van Horn devoted all his energies to advanc-
ing the interests of Kansas City and the region tributary thereto. In 1862,
while with his regiment in the field, he was elected to the state senate and
in the session of the following January was one of the seven members who
effected the election of John B. Henderson to the United States senate,
which event was a potent factor in the conduct of Missouri politics for years
afterward. In the session of 1864-5 he had charge of the bill providing for
the completion of the IMissouri Pacific Railway to Kansas City, the first
railway to reach this city, and with the aid of M. J. Payne and E. M.
McGee, who urged the measure in the house, success was attained. In 1864
he was elected to congress from the eighth Missouri district, serving in the
thirty-ninth, fortieth and forty-first congresses (1865-71) and in the forty-
seventh and fifty-fourth congresses (1881-3 and 1895-7). He officiated in
congress as chairman of the house committee of the joint committee on
printing, on the committees of Indian affairs and on Pacific railroads, as
well as various other important committees, and was always known as an
active and vigilant member. He was untiring in his efforts to secure the
passage of measures of importance to the growing west as well as those of
national interest: introduced bills for the improvement of western rivers,
the consolidation of Indian tribes, the first railroad bridge across the Mis-
souri river at Kansas Citv and the first bill for the organization of Okla-
homa Territory; and was also personally influential in effecting a treaty
with the tribes in the Indian Territory by which the first railroad was
granted the right of way through that section. He aided in securing the
legislation providing for the building of the Kansas City, Fort Scott & Gulf
Railway and enabled the company to secure the neutral lands, now the
counties of Crawford and Cherokee, Kansas, in aid of construction: and also
secured the passage in the house of representatives of the bridge charter of
the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad.

10 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Colonel Van Horn supplemented his sei-vice as a public official with
per.?istent and vigorous effort through his newspaper and in attending con-
ventions and legislative gatherings where the interests of Kansas City could
be at all furthered. His knowledge of western affairs was such that his
party in Missouri, and by unanimous endorsement of the legislature of Kan-
sas, combined in vigorously urging his appointment as secretary of the in-
terior under President Hayes. From 1875 to 1881 he was collector uf
internal revenue of the sixth district of Missouri. Always accorded great
skill and sagacity as a politician, Colonel Van Horn has been a valued mem-
ber of many national and state committees and conventions and served as
a delegate to the republican national convention of 1864, 18G8, 1872, 1876,
1880 and 1884. being one of the ''308" voting for General Grant in the con-
vention of 1880. He also served twice as a member of the national republican
committee and as chairman of the republican state committee of Missouri.

He was one of the organizers of the Kansas City Academy of Science
in 1877 and its president for many years. His interest in scientific subjects
led him to warmly advocate, through his paper the establishment of a man-
ual training school and the present excellent institution of Kansas City
probably owes its existence more to the sentiment created by his utterances
than to any other agency.

As a writer Colonel Van Horn was always lucid and vigorous. Affect-
ing none of the arts of the polished writer, his sentences are models of clear,
easily understood and grammatical English, characterized by an expression
peculiar to the deep and logical thinker, absolutely sincere and fearless.
For many years preceding his retirement from journalism he wrote a Sun-
day article embodying philosophical reflections upon topics of current in-
terest, which frequently verged, upon the metaphysical and were at times
daring in their adroit indictment of mental faults and moral offenses. Al-
ways (loliglitfully readable, they attracted such wide attention that com-
petent critic.-, including some who could not approve all the conclusions of
the writer, urged their publication in book form. For some years past he
has written but little except in the way of occasional encomium upon some
well regarded pioneer who has passed awaj^, such writings including a tribute
to the memory of Colonel M. J. Payne, read before the Kansas City His-
torical Society. Perhaps his latest work of peculiar local interest is his
article on "Kan.sas-Mis.souri Border Troubles" written for the Encyclopedia
of the Hi.-tory of Missouri.

Colonel Van Horn is recognized as a man of distinguished literary
attainments and superior mind and stands foremost among the many able
and energetic ni.'n engaged in the making of Kan.sas City. Every stc]) taken
for the aihanccnicnt of the citN' wa- in the face of almost insuperable ob-
stacles and all that was accomplished for it was ])nrcly through undismayed
hopefulness and unconquerable determination, and among those who di.s-
played these attributes in their perfection was Colonel ^'an Horn. During
his forty-one years' service as editor, in the legislature and in congress, and
unceasingly in his personal effort as a jirivate citizen, hi- life work has been
for the upbuilding of Kansas City.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 11

A type of manhood that ha,s made it possible for the people of this
country to enjoy in the fullest measure the richness of this life which is
their inheritance, for more than forty years he has stood as the embodiment
of that kind of energy which has made the name of Kansas City a synonym
for enterprise, intelligently and honestly directed, in all sections of the
United States. He is distingxiished as having been the moving spirit among
a coterie of men of rcmarkaljle practical sagacity, in knowing how to seize
upon opportunities that would command and hold the avenues of commerce
from the Lakes to Galveston and to determine in advance what should be
the gateway between the Mississippi valley and the Pacific.

The preparation he received educationally to play the part in life in
which he was destined to become a most conspicuous actor was most meager.
Complimented on his wide and scholarly reading and the firm grasp he
had on scientific and philosophic subjects and his comprehensive knowledge
of public men and national affairs, he took from a library shelf three small
books — a "United States Spelling Book," ''Introduction to the English
Reader," and old arithmetic, "The Western Calculator." "These," he said,
"were the sources of my information. I studied them in the winter when
the weather was too bad to work out of doors." His ethical training con-
sisted chiefly of the shorter catechism of the Presbyterian church, of which
his grandfathers, father and brother were elders. How well his contact with
different types of men with whom he mingled had prepared him as a torch-
bearer for the forefront of this western procession, is not now a question of
speculation but one of deeds accomplished.

In his personal character Colonel Van Horn is modest in the extreme,
readily yielding to others more credit for accomplished results than he
cares to have ascribed to himself. A deep student of books, a close observer
of events and a rare judge of men, through a long and eventful life in which
he has met in familiar contact the greatest actors in a wondrous era, he is
a rarely entertaining conversationalist, uniting in his discourse the knowl-
edge of the historian, the wise discrimination of the critic and the well-
tempered judgment of the philosopher. Owing to his true friendship in
which confidence is never lost or debased, his name is deeply engraved on
the hearts of thousands of men and women who knew him in the early
struggles, trials and triumphs of Kansas City and he is esteemed by all who
know him as an honest, sympathetic and public-spirited citizen. His every-
day life is simple, unpretending and democratic, bringing him in close touch
with all classes, whose thoughts, feelings and aspirations he understands
far better than those who stand aloof.

A statesman, philosopher, scholar and thinker, his mind which was
trained by a long and powerful system of analysis, so that it worked with
the precision of a splendid piece of machinery, moves in an ever-widening
circle of knowledge. Indissolubly connected with Kansas City, its rise,
progress and destiny, is the name of Colonel Van Horn, whose public
services and private virtues belong to this nation as one of its great historic
characters. And by universal sanction Kansas City has conferred on him
the title of "First Citizen."

12 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

At Pomeroy, Ohio, on December 2, 1848, he married Adela H.,
daughter of Caleb and Matilda (Buckingham) Cooley, of Meigs county,
Ohio. They had four children: Caleb Henry, who died at the age of eight;
Charles C, who died in his twentieth year; Robert C, also deceased, who
served as assistant under Postniaster. Theodore S. Case and at the time of
his death, which occurred when he was thirty-five years of age, was a stock-
holder in the Kansas City Journal and actively engaged on that paper; and
Dick Y'dn Horn, born November 15, 1851, who for thirteen years was a
member of the staff of the Kansas City Journal.

CHARLES S. KEITH.

Charles S. Keith, who since 1907 ha^ been president and general man-
ager of the Central Coal & Coke Company, the largest concern of the kind
in the southwest, was born in Kansas City, January 28, 1873. The family is
of Scotch lineage and the progenitor of the American branch came from
Scotland in 1642. His father, Richard H. Keith, a native of Lexington,
Missouri, became a resident of Kansas City in 1871 and established business,
which is now conducted under the name of the Central Coal & Coke Com-
pany and in which connection he became one of the most prominent business
men of this section of the country, controlling mammoth interests in both
lumber and coal. As stated, he was a native of Lexington, born in 1842.
The early American ancestors lived in Virginia, while Mr. and Mrs. Smith
Keith, j)arents of Richard H. Keith, removed from the Old Dominion to
Missouri in 1889. Reared in this state, Richard H. Keith attended the old
Masonic College at Lexington until his seventeenth year, when he made his
entrance into the business world as deputy clerk in the circuit and probate
courts and recorder of deeds in Lafayette county. He was eighteen years
of age when he enlisted as a private under Colonel John Bowman of the
State rJuai-ds. He saw active service in behalf of the Confederacy in various
engagements, including those at Lexington, Oak Hill and Pea Ridge. Later
he went to Memphis, Tennessee, where he joined the Landis battery of ar-
tillery, wilh which he j)arlicipated in the first and second battles at Cor-
inth and also the battles of luka, Hatchie River, Grand Gulf, Fort Gibson,
Champion Hills, Black River and the siege of Vicksburg. Refusing a parole
at \'ick.-l)ing, he was sent as a prisoner of war to Camp Morton. Indianapolis,
from which ])lace he later made his escape.

Mr. Keith then went to California and afterward was connected with
trading interests in Leavenworth, Kansas, and New Mexico for two years
and also conducted a dry goods store in the former place for a year. As
stated, he became a resident of Kansas City in 1871 and invested his entire
capital of forty dollars in the establishment of a little coalyard on Bluff street.
Kansas City then had but little industrial or commercial importance and han-
dled not more than thirty or forty carloads of coal per day. Mr. Keith lived to
witness the growth of the city and its business development \mtil between

R. H. KEITH.

THE NLW YORK
PUBLIC LIBRARY

ASTOR, LENOX
TILDEN FOUN».\TIONS

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 15

three hundred and fifty or four hundred car loads of coal are handled daily
liere. He conducted his retail business for several yeans and eventually be-
came one of the most prominent and successful retail coal dealers of the
country as the president of the Central Coal & Coke Company. Constantly
watchful of opportunities for expanding his business, in 1878, he opened his
iirst mine at Godfrey, Bourbon county, Kansas, and in the succeeding two
years opened other mines at Rich Hill, while eventually he became the
owner of extensive and valuable coal lands in the Bonanza district of Ar-
kansas. The increase of his Inisiness led to the organization of the Central
Coal iSc Coke Company, which now owns coal bearing lands that produce four
million tons of coal annually. Something of the growth of the business
is indicated in the fact that when Colonel Keith oi)cned his little coalyard
on liluff street he employed but two or three men and ere his death the
employes of the Central Coal & Coke Company numbered about ten thou-
sand, while its output amounted to one hundred and twenty thousand cars
and its business reached the sum of seven million dollars yearly, mining
coal in Kansas, Missouri, Indian Territory, Arkansas and Wyoming. The
interests of the company were constantly expanded and in connection with
the operation of the coal fields and the marketing of the products the com-
pany also established and controlled ere the death of Colonel Keith twenty-
five stores, handling goods to the value of three million dollars. Retail
coalyards and offices were also established at Wichita, Kansas, St. Joseph,
Missouri, Omaha, Nebraska, and Salt Lake City, while the products are
widely shipped throughout the entire west and south, the business of the
company exceeding that of any other firm in the western states.

The Keith & Perry Coal Company was reorganized as the Central Coal
A: Coke Company, May 1, 1893. Previous to this time the company had
dealt in lumber on a small scale in connection with the coal business but
THuler new management the lumber enterprise developed rapidly, so that
the company in this connection soon gained recognition among the most
prominent lumber manufacturers and dealers west of the Mississippi. The
property of the Bowie Lumber Company of Texarkana, Texas, was pur-
chased, including twenty-five acres within the corporation limits of that city,
and the plant was reconstructed along most modern lines and equipped Avith
the latest improved machinery. The Central Coal & Coke Company began
its actual operations in lumber mannfacture in January, 1894, and the plant
at Texarkana was in operation until the summer of 1902, when it was
torn down and removed to Carson, Louisiana, owing to the exhaustion of
the timber supply of the company at the former place. At Carson the com-
pany's mills cut about five million feet of lumber per month and shipments
to and from the mills were made over the Missouri & Louisiana Railroad,
fifty-one miles in length — a road practically owned by the Central Coal &
Coke Company. With the continued growth of the business a second saw-
mill ]ilant was erected at Keith, Louisiana, on the Kansas City Southern
Railway, and daily converts one hundred and forty thousand feet of logs
into lumber. Mr. Keith was also interested in one hundred and sixty-five

16 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

thousand acres of jiiiic lands in Houston county, Texas, lying between the
Cotton Beh and the International A: Gvea.t Northern Railway. The business
at that })uint was organized under separate incorporation as the Louisiana
cV: Texa> huinber Company. A mill plant was erected at Kennard, Texas,
witli a cajiacity of three hundred thousand feet per day, this being the larg-
e.-;t mill in the south. Mr. Keith became [n'osident of the company, with
Charles Campbell as treasurer and secretary. The product of the Louisiana
& Texas Lumber Company's plant, however, was handled by the Central
Coal & Coke Company. ]\lr. Keith stood pre-eminent as a central figure in
lumber and coal circles, possessing superior ability that enabled him to for-
nndalc large ])lans and carry them forward to successful completion, con-
trolling not only the salient features of the business but also giving super-
\i.<ion to the slightest detail. His l)usiness methods were always in strict
conformity to a hiuh standard of commercial ethics and thus won for him
the admiration and respect of his business colleagues and associates. He
was a Catholic in religious faith, a republican in his political views and a
i\Iason in his social relations. He was also a brigadier general of the Con-
federate Veterans' Association of Kansas City.

Mr. Keith was first married in 1871 to ]Mi.-s Anna Boorman and their
children were: Charles S., of this review: Dr. Robert L. Keith; and Mrs.
C. W. Hastings. l'^)r his second wife Mr. Keitli chose Miss Mary B. Boor-
man, liv whom he had the following children: INIrs. A. K. Taylor, R. H.
Keith. .Ir., Mrs. Freeman Field, Anna Keith and Mary Taylor Keith.

Charles S. Keith supplemented his early educational privileges by study
in St. .Tohn's College at Fordham, New York city, and was graduated in
1891 with the degree of Bachelor of Science. In .Tuly of the same year he
entered the offk'e of the Central Coal & Coke Company as bookkeeper and
has throughout liis entire business career been connected with this enterprise.
He acquainted himself in principle and detail, closely studied the trade and
in .July. 1007, b3came the president and general manager of what is now
the largest coal and lumber enterprise of the southwest. He occupies a posi-
tion in linsiness circles not alone by reason of the success he has achieved but
al.-o on acconnt of the straightforward business methods he has ever followed.
It is trne that lie entered upon a business already established and upon a
paying basis but as general manager he has enlarged and extended its scope,
liis record proving conclusively that success is not a matter of genius, as
lu'ld ])y some, but results from clear judgment, experience and unwearied
industry. He is also popular in the city where his entire life has been
passed, having won an extensive circle of warm friends.

JAMES P. KENMUIR.

In that period of Kansas City's history when lu^r mercantile establish-
ments were but entering uf)on a pioneer existence, Januv P. Kenmuir became
a factor in commercial circles. Ho arrived in the city in 1S78, and through-
out hi- remaining days was closely a.ssociated with the jewelry trade. In an

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 17

analyzation of his life work there can be placed but one interpretation upon
his success, and that is that it resulted from merit and ability. He had no
special advantages at the outset of his career other than the American youth
usually enjoys, but he possessed a determined spirit, combined with high
ideals in business that won for him an honored name as well as a comfortable
competency.

Mr. Kenmuir was a native of Balany Hindi, Ireland, where his birth
occurred in March, 1838. His parents were also natives of the Emerald Isle,
where they passed their entire lives. The father was also a watchmaker by
trade, and continued in that line of activity throughout his entire business
career. One of the sons of the family, John Kenmuir, came to America in
early life and settled in Leavenworth, Kansas, where he engaged in the
jewelry and watchmaking business for several years. He then removed to
St. Joseph, Missouri, and became a leading jeweler of that city, conducting
an extensive business, which brought him gratifying prosperity.

The common schools of Ireland afforded James P. Kenmuir the educa-
tional advantages which qualified him for life's practical and responsible
duties, and his business training was received under the direction of his
father, in whose establishment he learned the jewelry and watchmaking
trades. After continuing with his father in Ireland for several years, the fact
of his brother's success in America induced him to seek a home beyond the
water, and when he had reached the eastern coast he tarried not until he had
reached Leavenworth, Kansas, where he entered into partnership with his
brother. He was connected with the business interests of that city until 1873,
when he removed to Kansas City. Here he began work at his trade with
the we.ll known jewelry firm of Cady & Olmstead, but after a brief period
engaged in business on his own account, opening a store on Main street,
between Seventh and Eighth streets. His business soon increased and necessi-
tated his securing larger quarters, so that he removed to Ninth street, between
Main and Walnut streets. The gradual growth of his business continued
and he finally opened his store in larger rooms on Tenth street, between
Main and Walnut streets, where he continued in the jewelry and watchmak-
ing business for many years. He prospered in his undertakings, for in his
business methods he displayed marked energy, careful systemization, strong
purpose and unswerving commercial integrity. At length he sold out and
lived retired in Kansas City throughout his remaining days, enjoying well
merited rest.

Mr. Kenmuir was married in 1876, in this city, to Miss Celia H. Rowlett,
a native of Bath, Steuben county. New York,' and a daughter of James and
Mary A. (Mitchell) Rowlett. Her father was a native of Ireland and came
to America in an early day. He joined the Presbyterian ministry, and in
that capacity was called to various Presbyterian churches in the east, devoting
his remaining days to the work of proclaiming the gospel. Both he and his
w^ife were residents of Steuben county, New York, when called to their final
rest. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Kenmuir were born two daughters and a son.
Mabel, the eldest, is the wife of Professor Walter H. Fickland, who was a
teacher in the Central high school of Kansas City for several years, and they

18 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

now reside in Littleton, Colorado, where he is business manager for Miss
AVolcott's schools. Charles E. Kenmnir, one of the leading young business
men of Kansas City, is now teller of the Fidelity Trust Company Bank. He
has recently married ]\Ii.>s ]\Iira Green and they reside at No. 20 Clinton
place. Nellie, who completes the family, is at home with her mother, and
they occupy a handsome and attractive residence at No. 132 Spruce avenue,
which was erected by Mrs. Kenmuir in September, 1905.

In the early days of their residence here Mr. Kenmuir erected a home at
No. 917 Troost avenue, where he and his family lived for a quarter of a cen-
tury. The death of the husband and father occurred September 9, 1902, and
the news of his demise carried grief and regret to many friends. His political
allegiance was given to the republican party, for he firmly believed that its
principles were most conducive to good government and the welfare of the
people. He was never an office seeker, but in the early days made official
observations and reports upon the weather and river, continuing in that service
until the work was put in control of the army. In Ireland he was a member
of the Masonic fraternity but united with no societies or secret organizations
in this country. His attention was largely given to the development of his
business, which, successfully controlled, made him one of the prosperous
residents here. It was not his success, however, but his honorable busine,ss
principles that gained him the entire respect and confidence of his colleagues
and his contemporaries, while the many commendal)le traits of his character,
as manifest in his kindliness, his consideration and his deference for the
o])inions of others, won for him the warmest esteem of all with whom he was
associated. It is not from the few conspicuous deeds of life that the blessings
chiefly come which make the world better, sweeter, happier, but from the
countless lowly ministrations of the everydays, the little faithfulnesses that
fill long years, and in this way Mr. Kenmuir contributed much to the happi-
ness of those around him.

JOSEPH VAN CLIEF KARNES.

ID-Clll

ill \';iii Clicf Karnes was Ixirn on a farm in Boone county, Mis-
souri, February 11. 1841. His parents, Thomas and Elizabeth (Payne)
Karnes, came to this state from Virginia in 1835. The former was of Ger-
man lineage and the latter of English and Dutch descent.

Joseph Van Clicf Karnes, the youngest of a family of four brothers,
attended the coniiti-y .<cliool.< continuously between his fifth and twelfth
years and then devoted four years to farm life. He entered the then pri'-
paratory cDur-c in the Missouri State University in 1857 and, completing
the academic course was graduated in 1862, with the degree of Bachelor of
Arts, liis ])ciiig the higlic.-t standing among all the students of the university
during the entire five years. Immediately after graduation Mr. Karnes en-
tered the law .school of Harvard Univer.^ity, but left during his first year to
acce])t a Greek and Latin tutorship in the Missouri State University. His

J. V. C. KARNES.

THE NLW YORK
PUBLIC LIBRARY

ASTOR, LENOX

-riLDEN FOUNSATIONS

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 21

fondness for languages has kept his Greek and Latin fresh to the present
time. He left the State University in 1865 with the degree of Master of
Arts. During his tutorship he was a student in the law office of Hon.
Boyle Gordon, of Columbia, with Henry N. Ess, then a tutor of mathematics
in the university. In August, 1865, they came to Kansas City and opened
an office under the name of Karnes & Ess. The partnership continued for
twenty-one years. Mr. Karnes is now the senior partner of the law firm of
Karnes, New & Krauthoff. When he arrived in Kansas City it contained a
population of only six thousand.

In addressing young men upoil the subject of how to succeed in law,
Mr. Karnes has said, "Be a gentleman; it pays nowhere better than in the
law. . . . Take advantage of no man's situation to extort from him un-
duly large fees. ... Be honest, both with the court and with the jury."
The advice which he has thus given to others he has always followed in his
own practice, and therein, in large measure, lies the secret of his success. It
is his theory of the law that the counsel who practice are to aid the court
in the administration of justice and there has been no member of the pro-
fession who has been more careful to conform his practice to a high standard
of professional ethics than he has. He has never sought to lead the court
astray in a matter of fact or law; has ever treated the court with the studied
courtesy which is its due and indulged in no harsh criticisms because it
arrived at a conclusion in the decision of a case different from what he hoped
to hear. Calm, dignified, self-controlled, free from passion or prejudice and
with the most kindly spirit, he gives to his client the service of great talent,
unwearied industry and rare learning, but he never forgets that there are
certain things due to the court, to his own self-respect, and above all to
justice and the righteous administration of the law that neither the zeal
of an advocate nor the pleasure of success permits him to disregard. He is
an able, faithful and conscientious minister in the temple of justice. He
has been connected with much important litigation and has won many hon-
orable victories.

In his bovhood days Mr. Karnes became an anti-slaverv advocate,
although living in a slave-holding community and his father to a limited
extent a slave-owner. He became a stanch supporter of the republican
party and was nominated for the supreme bench in 1880, but was defeated
with the remainder of the ticket owing to the strong democratic majority in
Missouri. His devotion to the general good has been manifest in manj'-
tangible ways. He served for twenty years on the school board of Kansas
City without pay and aided in securing much needed legislation and in
placing the schools upon an excellent foundation. No one was more active
or instrumental in founding the public library and he served for many
years on the library committee of the board. He is a member of the Com-
mercial Club and has been chairman of the committee on municipal legis-
lation, and was one of the freeholders who framed the present city charter.
He assisted in organizing the Kansas City Bar Association and was its presi-
dent for three consecutive terms. He was one of the founders of the Kansas
City Law Library Association and for several years was its president. He

22 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

•was one of the organizers of the Provident Association, drafted its charter,
and gave much thought to the furtherance of the cause. He has been a
prominent and effective advocate of the park and boulevard sj^stem and has
served as a member of the park board, and he is now chairman of the tene-
ment commission. His services are freelj' given to the city wherever he feels
that he can aid in advancing its material, intellectual, social and moral prog-
ress, but always without compensation.

In Octol)er, 1903 , the degree of Doctor of Laws wa.s conferred upon
Mr. Karnes by the Missouri University. On the 27th of January of that
year he had been made an honorary member of the Commercial Club. His
fellow citizc]is recognize in him a man of scholarly attainments, of superior
ability in hi- profession, of marked public spirit and untiring devotion to
the general good. His success has been great but his liberality has made his
fortune only moderate. There are few men who have the strict sense of
honor in regard to professional service that has always characterized Mr.
Karnes in his practice and has made him one of the most respected, as well
as one of the most capable practitioners of the Kansas City bar.

avillta:\i xjaet.

William \'li('t, wi'll known as a bridgebuilder and contractor in general
civil engineering work u\) to the time of his death, which occurred in Kansas
City in March. 1893, was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and at the age of nine
years became a resident of ^Milwaukee, Wisconsin. After acquiring a good
public-school education he studied civil engineering, and thus qualified for
the profession which he made his life work. In 1876 he removed to Kansas
City, ]\Iissouri, and followed civil engineering in connection with the King
Bridge Company, building iron bridges all over the country and especially for
the Union Pacific Railroad. He was also the builder of the reservoir here.
He thoroughly understood the great scientific jirinciples which underlie civil
engineering as well as all of the practical work connectL'd with the business,
and his skill ;iiid efficiency gained him i»r(niiincn(e as a representative of that
departiiiiMit of IhImh'.

At tlie Slierniini House in Cliicago. in 18r)3, Mr. Vliet was married to
Miss Sarali T. Tloageland. a daughter of Edwin Iloageland, who Avas a native
of the state of New York and was ca|»tain of a ve.^^sel that ])lied between Fish-
kill Landing niid New York city. Tie died, howevei'. when his children were
very yonng. His widow, who liore the maiden name of Diana IIasl)rook,
and was al.«o a native of the iMiipire ,-tate, married again after the death of
her first hu.«band. l)ecomiiiu the wife of .John .Tohn-on. mid removed to Mil-
waukee will) the rmiiily. In LS.")! Mr. .lohn.-on came to Kansas City, Mis-
souri, and two years later moved the family here. He eoniint'iieed work in
contracting line.- and foi- ,-oiiie year.< was thus engaged. At first the family
lived in a lou hon.-e, hut as in- financial resources increa-ed Mr. Johnson
embraced liis o|i|M)i'tunitie.- {'t)V judicions inve-tment and pnrchased a large

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 23

amount of property, owning what was later known as the Johnson addition
and also the land where the junction now stands. He became one of the most
prominent and influential residents of the city in early days, and was elected
the first mayor of Kansas City, Missouri, but declined to serve, for his ambi-
tions were in other directions than official preferment.

He continued in business here until after the outbreak of the Civil war,
and was the first man to float the stars and stripes in Kansas City. However,
on account of the trouble brought about through the bitter feeling engendered
during the Civil War he removed to Leavenworth, Kansas, where he took up
the occupation of farming, and there made his home until his death, which oc-
curred in 1904 when he had reached the venerable age of eighty-four years.
He was an active republican and a man always loyal to his principles, never
swerving in his support of his honest convictions. Mrs. Vliet had two broth-
ers, Walter and George Hoagelund, who came here with their stepfather.
Mrs. Vliet, however, remained in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, until 187'6, when she
accompanied her husband on his removal to Kansas City, where she has since
made her home. Their daughter Emma became the wife of Frank S. Ford,
and they now reside with ^Irs. Vliet. Mr. Ford was born in Ohio and came
to Kansas City, Missouri, when twenty-seven years of age. He has since been
engaged in conducting a planing mill for Mr. Lovejoy. He is a member of
Ivanhoe Lodge, A. F. & A. M., also belongs to the Royal Arch Chapter and
to the Modern Woodmen Camp. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Ford has been born a
daughter, Frances Bernice. Mr. Ford was a son of Henry N. Ford, who hiis
been in the planing mill business in Ohio for years, and of Mary (Leclercq)
Ford, a native of France.

^Ir. Vliet was a worthy exemplar of the ^Masonic fraternity, and attained
the Knight Templar degree. His life was in harmony with his principles-,
and he enjoyed to the fvillest extent the confidence and good will of his fellow-
men. He was ever accurate, thorough, progressive and reliable in business,
while those with whom he was associated in friendly relations knew him as
a man of many excellent traits of character, of kindly purpose and genial
disposition. He died in March, 1893, at the age of sixty-two years, and his
memorv is vet cherished bv manv who knew him.

CON MURPHY.

Con Murphy, who is engaged in the livery business at No. 1309 Walnut
street in Kansas City, was born in County Cork, Ireland, in 1848, and the
following year was brought by his parents to the new world, the family home
being established in Virginia. His father, Charles Murphy, was also a native
of County Cork, and during his residence in ^^irginia was identified with
railroad interests. In 1857, however, he left the Old Dominion and came to
Kansas City, traveling by boat a part of the way. This city was then a small
town of little industrial or commercial prominence, and giving but little
promise of rapid future development. Mr. Murphy settled near what is now

24 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

the intersection of Fifteenth and Locust streets, where he built a log cabin,
cutting the timber on the west bottoms w^here the Union depot now stands
in order to l)uild his house. The district all around him was farm land, and
he at once turned his attention to general agricultural pursuits, continuing
in active connection with the farming interests of Jackson county until his
death, which occurred in 1880 when he was eighty years of age. His study of
the political issues and questions in this country led him to ally his interests
with the democratic party, and he always remained one- of its supporters,
but never sought nor desired office as a reward for party fealty. His religious
faith was indicated by his membership in the Catholic church. He married
Bridget Horrigan, also a native of County Cork, Ireland, who died about
1891. They were the parents of twelve children, of whom four are now living:
Mrs. Mary Ryan ; Mrs. Catherine Hurley ; John, a resident of Leavenworth,
Kansas, who served in Van Horn's regiment in the Civil war; and Con, of
this review. Jeremiah and Daniel, who formerly served as county collector
here, are now deceased.

Brought to America when but a year old, Con Murphy remained in Vir-
ginia until nine years of age, and then became a resident of Kansas City,
where for more than a half century he has now made his home. He started
in business life as a clerk in a clothing store, and he devoted three years to
learning the saddlery trade, but never followed that pursuit. On giving up
his position as clerk in the store he became deputy county collector under his
brother Daniel, and served in that capacity for four years. His capability
and fidelity in office led to his selection for further official honors, and he
was chosen by a popular vote to the position of county marshal, in which
he also served for four years. He next resumed clerking in a store, but after-
ward under President Cleveland's administration was superintendent of car-
riers in the Kansas City postoffice. On retiring from that position he engaged
in the dry-goods business with Schelley on Delaware street for several years,
and sub.-iequently became inspector of detectives. On again leaving the pub-
lic service he engaged in the livery business at No. 555 Grand street, while
later he bought out the livery stable of Baker Brothers at No. 1309 Walnut
street, where he is now located. Here he has a well equipped establishment,
having a large line of fine carriages and receives a liberal patronage. He alsQ
erected a residence at the corner of Eleventh and Cherry streets, but now
resides at No. 3102 East Twenty-third street.

Mr. Murphy was married in Indiana, in 1882, to Miss Mary A. Sheibley,
a native of Jackson county, Missouri. Her father, Henry Sheibley, was a
school teacher here at an early day, but afterward returned to Indiana,
although he later again became a resident of Kansas City. He married Susan
Keashler, and their family included Mi's. Murphy, who by her marriage has
become the mother of ten children: Con, Jr., Ellen, Charles H., Mary A.,
John, Daniel, Cornelia, Annie C, Leonilla and Jo.^eph. The family circle yet
ri'iiiain.- iiiihrdkcii, and all are yet imder the parental roof.

Mr. Murplix- has alway.- given his ])olitical support to the democratic
party, and is active in its ranks. He belongs to the Woodmen of the World,
and lias served as councilor of Camp Xo. -42-1. and in all the other offices. He

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 25

is likewise connected with the Knights of Cohimbus and the Catholic
Knights of Amercia, and is a member of the Catholic church, to the support
of which he has contributed generously, aiding in the erection of a large
majority of the Catholic churches of Kansas City. Whatever success he has
achieved in business is attributable to his own efforts, for from an early age
he has been dependent upon his own resources. He now owns a good livery
establishment, and is conducting a prosperous business in this line.

LAUREN W. McCOLLUM.

Lauren W. McCollum, who at the time of his death was a stockholder
and secretary of the W. S. Dickey Clay Company, became a resident of Kan-
sas City in 1888 and although his business interests afterward took him to
various sections of the country he still regarded this as his place of residence.
His birth occurred in Buffalo, New^ York, July 22, 1853. His father, Otis
McCollum, was also a native of the Empire state and engaged in the news-
paper business in Buffalo. In the schools of that city the son pursued his
education and was also identified with journalistic interests until his removal
to the west.

About the year 1880 he became a resident of Des Moines, Iowa, and
assisted C. C. Gilbert in erecting his large storage factory there. He remained
in Des Moines until 1888, when he removed to Kansas City and became
connected with the old sewer pipe company. When it was afterward merged
into the W. S. Dickey Clay Company, he became one of its stockholders
and secretary of the latter and was associated therewith until his demise. In
that capacity he assisted materially in the upbuilding of the plant and the
enterprise and traveled all over the country looking after the interests of
the business. He also visited the Orient in connection w^ith this business just
prior to his demise. He was taken ill while looking after the branch factory
at Macomb, Illinois, where he died May 19, 1906. He had a very large busi-
ness acquaintance and wherever he went impressed people with his capacity
for business control and his aptitude in successful management. He was
very thorough in all that he undertook and when he became connected with
the pottery interests he made it his object to thoroughly acquaint himself
with the business in principle and detail. He was thus enabled to converse
intelligently upon the subject and to present the interests of the company in
the best possible light. His persistency of purpose was one of his strong
characteristics and at all times he worked with a recognition of the fact that
"there is no excellence without labor."

Mr. McCollum was married in Des Moines, Iowa, November 8, 1882, to
Miss Nellie M. Leach, of Chicago, and unto them was born a daughter, Kate,
who is now the wife of William E. Merrill. Mrs. McCollum's father is E. C.
Leach, one of the oldest business men of Chicago, to which city he removed
when eighteen years of age and there engaged in the distilling business. He
still makes his home in that city and has a wide acquaintance there among

26 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

its leading business men. He is a native of Vermont, while his wife, who
bore the maiden name of Kate H. Carter, is a native of Canada.

Mr. McCollum's po^iition on political questions was never an equivocal
one. He gave stalwart support to the republican party, not because of any
desire on his part for political preferment but because he had firm faith in
its principles in connection with the jDromotion of the country's welfare. He
greatly desired the success of the j)arty and as a delegate attended its last
national convention held in Chicago. He was accorded a prominent place
in business circles in Kansas City and for many years was an active member
of the Commercial Club. He also belonged to the Manufacturers Club, the
Knife and Fork Club, the Missouri Republican Club, the Ivanhoe Lodge of
Masons and the Episcopal church — associations which indicated much of the
character of his interests and ideals. In his attitude everywhere he mani-
fested the true spirit of altruism and although aggressive in every sense of
the word he always avoided even the semblance of that popular tendency, so
detrimental to the common welfare of humanity, namely the sacrifice of
friendship or i)riiicipl(' for the promulgation of .selfish interests.

REV. NATHAN SCARRITT.

Nathan Scarritt, minister and benefactor, was born at Edwardsville,
Illinois, April 14, 1821, son of Nathan and Latty (Allds) Scarritt. He was
of Scotch and Irish descent. His father (b. 1788, d. 1847), a native of
Connecticut, was a farmer by occupation; hi.s mother (b. 1793, d. 1875) was
a native of New Hampshire. His parents were married at Lyman, New
Hampshire, in 1812, and Nathan was the seventh child and sixth son of a
family of twelve children, of whom ten were sons. In 1820 his parents
emigrated liy wagon from New Hampshire to Illinois, locating fir.st at Ed-
ward-^ville, and then on a farm near Alton — their latter location becoming
known as Scarritt's Prairie, now the seat of the Monticello Female Seminary.
Natlian worked on the home farm until he was sixteen years of age, when he
entered McKendree College, at Lebanon, Illinois, beginning in the prepar-
atory department. His father was able to aid him but little and he obtained
his education almost entirely through his own effort, paying part of liis first
yearV tuition l»y clearing the brush and timber from the college campus,
which work he did after study hours and by moonlight. With two com-
panions he lived in a log hut, near which he fenced and cultivated a garden.
hi.~ meal- often consisting of potatoes of hi.s own raising, with occasionally
bread and mejil : ;nid dnring that time hi.s cxpeii.^e- were frecpiently les.s than
fifty cents a week.

His -Indies wei-e iiileriiipled l)y tlie illne.<s of his fallier and he returned
home to manauv the farm, Imt when his father liad sutliciently recovered he
returned to college at the urgent solicitation of the faenlty. who offered him
Itoard and tuition on credit. In 1842 he was graduate(l from ^h-Kendree

NATHAN SCARRITT.

' "ORK
PUB^io UBRARY

ASTOR, LENOX
TILDEN FOUNBATION?

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 29

College as valedictorian, by appointment of the faculty, receiving the degree
of B. A. He soon afterwards engaged in teaching at Waterloo, Illinois, and
out of the savings of two years paid his indebtedness to his college. In April,
1845, he removed to Fayette, Missouri, where he joined his brother-in-law,
William T. Lucky, in the establishment of a high school. The opening of
that institution, however, was inauspicious, for out of six pupils at the begin-
ning, one was taken ill and four ran away, leaving only two pupils at the
close of the first week. But success of the undertaking was subsequently
attained and out of Howard High School, as it was known, grew Central
College for males and Howard Female College. Later, upon urgent solicita-
tion, Dr. Scarritt acted as provisional president of Central College for one
year, during which he established the institution upon a firm basis. From
1848 until 1851 he taught the Indian Manual Labor School in the Shawnee
country, Indian Territory ; during the ensuing year served as principal of the
high school at Westport, having been the leading spirit in the building of
that institution ; and from 1864 to 1885 taught school in Kansas City, Mis-
souri.

From boyhood Dr. Scarritt had been impressed with the conviction that
he was destined for the ministry, and, upon reaching a suitable age, was
called to the duties of a class leader, his deep sincerity and fervency in prayer
and exhortation winning the admiration of ministers whom he met. In
1846 he was licensed to preach and later in that year was received on trial
into the Missouri conference, and appointed to the Howard High School
where he was then teaching, meanwhile also ministering to neighborhoods in
the vicinity. Upon the division of the Methodist church he affiliated wnth
the Methodist Episcopal church, south. .While teaching among the Indians
(1848-51) he frequently assisted the missionaries, and, being appointed mis-
sionary to the Shawnees, Delawares and Wyandottes in 1851, he preached to
each of these tribes through interpreters, his labors proving eminently useful.
Meanwhile he also performed ministerial duty at Lexington, filling a vacancy.
In the latter part of 1852 he was appointed to Westport and Kansas City, and
the following year located in the latter place, becoming pastor of the Fifth
Street church. In January, 1855, he was appointed presiding elder of the
Kickapoo district of the Kansas Mission conference, which body he repre-
sented in the general conference of 1858; in 1858-9 served in the Shawnee
Eeserve, and during the ensuing two years was presiding elder of the Lecomp-
ton district.

In 1861 Dr. Scarritt's ministerial labors were suspended on account of
the unsettled conditions incident to the Civil war. After peace was restored,
however, he engaged in itinerant sei-vice for one year and was superannuated
on account of physical disability but declined the aid due him from the
Conference fund. In 1876 he was located in Kansas City, where his labors
were conspicuously useful in the pastorate, in turn, of the old Fifth Street,
the Walnut Street, the Lydia Avenue, the Campbell Street and the Melrose
churches. He was a delegate in several sessions of the general conference,
during two of which he served on the committee of revisals, and was as-
signed to a similar position at the session of 1890.

30 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Dr. Scarritt/s residence' in Kansas City led to his accumulation of a
large fortune and afforded liim opportunity to aid materially in the devel-
opment of that city and to formulate and execute various philanthropic de-
signs. In 1862 he bought forty acres of land near the city and subsequent
purchases increased his holdings to two hundred and twenty acres situated on
Scarritt's Point, his first home there being a log cabin of his own building. Hfe
was early associated with Governor Ross of Delaware in the ownership of a tract
of land in the heart of Kansas City, a block of which was intended to be con-
veyed in fee to the city upon condition that a courthouse or school be built
thereon, but the city failed to make use of the opportunity. He was also a
pioneer builder on ]\Iain and Walnut Streets, where he erected many of the
most substantial and useful structures. Among his benefactions were five
thousand dollars to the Scarritt Collegiate Institute at Neosho; five thousand
dollars to the Central Female College at Lexington ; and thirty thousand dol-
lare to ]\Ielrose church, Kansas City, which latter edifice was erected on a lot
where for two years he previously maintained a tent for religious meetings.
His benefactions were not restricted to the objects favored by his own de-
nomination, for scarcely a church in Kansas City was unaided by him. His
desire to establish a Bible and Training School was on the eve of accomplish-
ment, when his death occurred, but his children faithfully carried out his
wishes regarding the project, by a gift of the site and twenty-five thoasand
dollars.

In llicology Dt. Scarritt proclaimed himself an Arminian of the Wes-
leyan Methodist type. In politics he was originally a whig and afterwards
a conservative democrat. He was opj)Osed to slavery, and while he sympa-
thized with the southern people regarded secession as a grave error. "\ATiile
in Kansas City he took no part in the border troubles, never attending a
l»olitical meeting or casting a partisan vote. He was a member of a company
of Kansas City Home Guards during the Rebellion and stood guard over
property Imt engaged in no forays or other movements.

His services as a clergyman and educator were of great value. As a teacher
he won upon his pupils as much through his kindly personal interest and
sympathy as through his power of imparting knowledge. By deep study and
close observation lie -(orcd his mind with ample matci'ial for every emergency,
and his sermons were models of instruction and logical exposition. Sincere
earnestness aided his effort with an unaffected vigor of oratory which com-
pelled attention, and enabled him to impress the individual hearer with the
conviction lliat he Avas listening to a personal message and appeal. His be-
nevolence- wci'c free and liberal and directed in a sympathetic and orderly
way. in.-ui'ing pcrpetuaiion of the gift and increasing advantages from it in
after years.

He received llie degree of M.A. from the University of Missouri in
1<S.)7 and thai of D.D. from his alma inatcr in 1870.

He married at Kansas City, Missouri, April 29, 1850, Martha M.. daugh-
ter of William Chick, one of the founders of Kansas City. Mrs. Scarritt died
July 29, 1878, leaving nine children, of whom six are living; Annie E., wife
of Bishop E. R. Hendrix (q. v.) of Kansas City; Edward L. Nathan, Jr., and

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 31

William C, all rasideiits of Kansas City, Missouri; Charles W., of Kansas
City. Missouri, a clergyman of the Methodist Episcopal church, south; and
Martha M., the wife of Elliott H. Jones, of Kansas City.

Dr. Scarritt married a second time, October 6, 1875, Mrs. Ruth E. Scar-
ritt, daughter of Rev. CyriLs Barker, a missionary in India, where she was born.

He died in Kansas City, Missouri, May 22, 1890.

PEYTON C. SMITH.

Peyton C. Smith, of Kansas City, was born in Clermont county, Ohio,
March 11, 1832. The days of his boyhood and youth passed without event
of special importance. His father was John P. Smith, a descendant of John
Pie Smith, and was born in New Jersey, whence he removed to Ohio when
about twenty-five years of age. There he followed farming for many years,
being closely and actively associated with agricultural interests in Clermont
county until a few years prior to his death. He came to Jackson county to
visit his son Peyton C. and here passed aw^ay in 1875 at the age of eighty-
four years. His wife bore the maiden name of Naomi Higbee and they be-
came the parents of nine children, of whom Peyton C. and two sisters are
now" living.

Peyton C. Smith was about twenty-eight years of age when he offered
his services to the government as one of the defenders of the Union cause in
the Civil war. He enli-^ted as a member of Company G, One Hundred and
Nineteenth Illinois Regiment, and was elected captain. His meritorious serv-
ice on the field of battle later won him promotion and he served as major
when discharged. At Rutherford, Tennessee, he was taken prisoner but was
afterward paroled and later served for nine months as court marshal at St.
Louis under General Schofield in 1863. He w^as present at the time Price made
his raid in Missouri and assisted in burying the dead there. Serving until
the close of the war, his military record w^as characterized by all that dis-
tinguishes the brave and loyal soldier who never falters in the performance
of any duty that devolves upon him as he labors to protect his country's in-
terests. He was mustered out at Springfield, Illinois, having enlisted from
Adams county, Illinois, where he had previously spent eleven years.

Mr. Smith became a resident of Jackson county, Missouri, in 1866, in
which year he purchased one hundred and forty acres of land in Washington
township, while his wife owned an adjoining tract of forty acres. His farm
had been brought under the plow but there were no improvements upon it
and with characteristic energy he began to make it a model farm property,
erecting there a fine residence from lumber which he hauled from the west
bottoms. His fields were brought under a high state of cultivation and he
carried on agricultural pursuits in accord with the most progressive, modern
methods, adding to his place all the equipments and accessories found upon
a model farm of the present day. He there kept high grades of stock and
made a specialty of raising fine hogs. Previous to his removal to Jackson

32 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

county he had engaged in merchandising but the adaptabiUty and spirit of
business enterprise which he has ahvays displayed enabled him tcr readily adapt
himself to the interests and labors of the farm and to acquire thereby a hand-
some competence. During the years of his residence in western Missouri he
has seen Kansas City develop from a small village to a beautiful city, thor-
oughly American in its interests and plans of upbuilding. At one time in
his early days here he hauled a load of potatoes to the city and something of
the size of the town may be indicated by the fact that there were too many
for the population at one time and the market was glutted, so that he had
hard work to dispose of the load. He continued to reside upon his farm until
about nine years ago, when he took up his abode in Kansas City, where he
has since made his home, while his sons give supervision to the farm of two
hundred and twenty-five acres, which the father still owns.

In 1858 occurred the marriage of Peyton C. Smith and Miss Naomi J.
Killam, of Adams county, Illinois. They became the parents of six chil-
dren: Ernest E., at home; Mrs. Almina Campbell, of Hickman Mills, Mis-
souri; Elbert E., at home; Mrs. Frances Bryant who is living with her par-
ents; Harold A., of Kansas City; and Clifford B., who was graduated from
Columbia University in the class of 1908.

Always a stalwart republican from the organization of the party and
ever inflexible in support of its principles, Mr. Smith in the early days of
Ills residence here Avas one of only three republicans in his district. The
cause of education has ever found in him a stalwart champion and an effective
friend who has labored untiringly for the interests of public instruction here,
believing in maintaining a high standard in connection with the public
schools. The trend of his life has ever been forward and though he has
passed the age when many cease to care particularly about the things that
are going on around them, in spirit and interests he seems yet in his prime
and gives out of the rich stores of his wisdom and experience for the benefit
of those with whom he comes in contact. Such a life is an inspiration to both
the young and the aged.

DAVID THOMAS BEALS.

Carlyle has said that "biography i.s the most interesting as well <i.s the
most profitable of all reading." Its purpose ivS not to give exprassion to man's
modest estimate of himself nor to any fulsome j^raise of partial friends but
to arrive at his true position in the comnumity through the consensus of
public opinion. An analyzation of the life record of David Thomas Beals
brings forth various reasons why the president of the Union National Bank
of Kansas City is accounted one of its most prominent and honored resi-
dents. He belongs to that cla.ss of American men whose paths are not strewn
with the wreck of other men's fortunes ])ut who through keen sagacity have
recognized opportunities and by their improvement and the close and unre-

DAVID T. BEADS.

THE KEW YORK
PUBLIC LIBRARY

ASTOR, LENOX

TTLDEN FOUN»ATION'=
\.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 35

mitting attention so necessary in business life haA^e attained success through
methods that neither seek nor require disguise.

Mr. Beals was born in North Abington, Massachusetts, March 8, 1832.
His father, Thomas Beals, also a native of the Bay state, was a manu-
facturer of boots and shoes until his retirement from active business life a
few years prior to his demise, which occurred in 1861. The mother, Mrs.
Ruth Faxon Beals, also a native of Massachusetts, died in May, 1875, at
the age of seventy-five years. David T. Beals was the youngest of their fam-
ily of three children, two sons and a daughter, the others being Ephraim
and Tryphosa. The sister became the wife of Ellridge Gurney, who was
at one time a partner of Mr. Beals. The home atmosphere was one of strict
observance of the. Sabbath and of close adherence to rigid church rules and
yet the lessons of integrity and industry there learned left an indelible im-
press upon the life of David T. BeaLs. He acquired his education in the
public schools of North Abington and in the New Hampshire Academy,
where he remained as a student for one year. He made his entrance into
business life in his fifteenth year, being employed by a Boston dry goods
merchant at a salary of fifty dollars a year, but his efficient and faithful
service won recognition in an increase of salary to three hundred and fifty
dollars for the year. At the end of the eighteen months, however, he began
learning the shoe trade at Abington, serving a two years' apprenticeship in
the shoe manufacturing business. The offer of assistance from a capitalist
enabled Mr. Beals to engage in business on his own account and he success-
full}^ conducted the enterprise until the widespread financial panic of 1857.
Disaster then threatened but his ready employment of certain opportunities
enabled him to tide over the situation and when he had settled up his aft'airs
he found that he had a capital of sixteen hundred dollars remaining.

Believing that the west offered better opportunities, in the fall of 1859
Mr. Beals went to St. .Joseph, Missouri, where irjf connection with his brother-
in-law, Ellridge Gurney, he established a boot and shoe business. From
that point, however, Mr. Beals constantly branched out. broadening the
scope of his interests from time to time until he became a prominent factor
in the commercial life of the west. In April, 1860. he established a shoe
store at Central City, Colorado, and in 1832 opened another at Bannock,
Montana. In 1863, however, he removed from Bannock to Virginia City,
Montana, and in the summer of that year also opened a shoe store at Idaho,
City, Idaho. In the succeeding fall he began operations at Salt Lake City,
as a dealer in shoes and leather and conducted all of these establishments
until the fall of 1873, when he disposed of his m.ercantile interests. He had
met the hard conditions occasioned bv the wild and unimproved condition
of the west, the lack of railroad facilities and occasional trouble with the In-
dians, but his perseverance enabled him to overcome obstacles and hi? mer-
cantile interests and judicious investment in other lines brought him grati-
fying profit. He sold the Colorado store to John S. McCowl, the Virginia
City store to Daniel We.ston and the Salt Lake store to William Sloan and
John AV. Kerr. At the time of his first arrival in St. Joseph there were no
railroads west of that point and for many years afterward all shipping to

36 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

the west was done by inule and ox trains, Avhich took from thirty-five to
seventy-five days from St. Josei^li to his different stores. His travels through
the west had brought liini a Ivnowledge of tlie cattle industry and, return-
ing to Colorado in 1873, he engaged in business in that line on the Arkansas
river and Sand creek. In 1877 he established a ranch on the Canadian
river in the Pan Handle of Texas and his operations in cattle, as in mer-
cantile lines, were guided by a sound judgment and supplemented by an
unfaltering industry that constituted the basis of his prosperity. As he de-
veloped his cattle interests he established headquarters at Chicago and in
1877 he organized the Beals Cattle Company, under which name he carried
on operations in Texas. About the time of the removal to Texas he was as-
vsociated in business with Mr. Clement and Mr. Rosencrans. Cattle ship-
ments were made from Dodge City, while his residence and business head-
quarter were maintained in Chicago. In 1884, however, Mr. Beals sold
out his cattle interest and moved to Kansas City and purchased his present
residence site at No. 250!5 Independence avenue — a tract of five acres on
which he soon afterward erected his present home. His immediate associa-
tion with the liusiness life of the city began in 1886, and he organized the
Union National Bank in the spring of 1887, of which he has continuously
served as the president. It was capitalized for six hundred thousand dollars
and today there is a surplus of six hundred thousand dollars and undivided
earnings of two lumdred thousand dollars. Despite the stringent times
tb rough which the country has passed since its organization the Union Na-
lioiial has never failed to make a semi-annual dividend. It has always paid
(111 its investment from -ix to twelve per cent and is regarded throughout
\]\v west as one of the most substantial and reliable moneyed institutions
ill tbis section of the countrv.

Mr. Beals is widely recognized as a man of ready resource and of keen
insigbt into a business situation and its ])o-sibilities. justly rating its diffi-
cuUies and its opportunities, and thus with no false standard lie lias utilized
the means at hand in the acquirement of success which is as honorable as
it is gratifying. Aside from the bank he is interested in various other finan-
cial aiul commercial (enterprises of Kansas City and also to a large extent
in Kansas City real estate. His realty holdings include many valuable busi-
ness and residence properties, including the Beals building, the L X build-
ing at the corner of Eighth and Grand, the T. A. building at Twelfth and
McOee and the business block at Twelfth and Troost. Tlie fir4 and last of
these business buildings were erected by Mr. Beals. who has also erected
many residences, some of which he still owns. He has recently built fine res-
idences for his two daughters, Mrs. Brown and Mi's. Conover.

Mr. Beals has been married twice. In Abingfon, Massachxisetts, April
20, 1851, he wedded Miss Ruth Cobb, of Maine, and to them were born
two children: David T., who died at the age of two years; and Tryphosa,
the wife of Adolphus H. Brown, now of Kansas City. The mother died in
1881 and on the 14th of October, 1884, Mr. Beals was married by the Rev.
Mr. Bowers to Arista Thurston, of Mount Vernon, Ohio, the wedding being
celebraied at Clinton. "Massachusetts. There are two children of this second

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 37

marriage: Dora, now the wife of John A. Conover, of the Richards & Con-
o\ex Hardware ConijDauy of Kansaw City; and David T., who is now a senior
in the Central high scliool at the age of eighteen years and expects to enter
Cornell University in the fall of 1908. On Thanksgiving evening of 1891,
when he was but two years old, he was kidnaped. This event created the
greatest excitement that Kansas City has ever experienced and the outcome
was awaited with interest throughout the entire country. The father, how-
ever, secured the return of the boy on the payment of five thousand dollars
and no questions asked. Mrs. Arista Beals passed away January 12, 1908.
Mr. Beals was for many years a member of the Unitarian church and
active in its work. His father built the first Congregational church in North
Abington in 1832. Mr. Beals has ^Iso held membership in many of the
leading clubs of this and other cities and is still identified with a number of
these. Although he has passed the seventy-sixth milestone on life's journey
he is a remarkaljly well preserved man mentally and physically and is con-
sidered one of the most able business men in the banking circles of the city.
In manner he is genial and unreserved, courteous and friendly and with a
most kindly nature. Aside from his busine^ss interests his time is largely
given to his family. He is devoted to the welfare of his children and holds
homes ties mo.st sacred and friendship inviolable. His career should serve
as a les.-^on to the young, for starting in life under adverse circumstances, his
record illustrates most forcibly the power of patient and persistent effort and
self-reliance. He has conducted all affairs so as to merit the esteem of all
classes of citizens and no word of reproach is ever uttered against him.

ROBERT C. PEARSON.

Robert C. Pearson, deceased, was well known throughout Missouri as a
court reporter, in which position he gained distinction by hLs skill, ability
and thoroughness. He was born in Harrisonville, Missouri, in 1873, and
w^as a representative of an old family of this state. His father was William
D. Pearson, also a native of Missouri, who for many years conducted a suc-
cessful business in loans and later in farming lands.

Robert C. Pearson was reared under the parental roof in the city of his
nativity, and, passing through consecutive grades in the public schools, early
became a high school graduate. In preparation for a professional career he
took up the study of law in the office and under the direction of R. T. Railey,
assistant attorney of the Missouri, Pacific Railroad Company. Later he-
served four years as reporter under Judge Jarrett and also served under Judge
Slover. He became known throughout jNIissouri in law business and his pro-
ficiency gained him a place with the leading representatives of court report-
ing in this part of the country. In 1904 he came to Kansas City, believing
it a good place to locate, becoming a member of the firm of Brown, Knight,
Adams & Pearson, court reporters. Purchasing property here he continued
to reside in the citv until called to his final rest in November, 1906.

38 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Mr. Pearson was married in May, 1898, to Miss Anita Drane, and unto
them have been born three children, Dorothy, iSIildred and Laura Louise.
Mrs. Pearson is a daughter of John R. Drane, a native of Kentucky, who
came to Missouri in early life and was married to Miss Mary Cook, also of
Harrisonville, Kentucky.

Mr. Pearson belonged to the Modern Woodmen Camp, the A. O. U. W.,
and also affiliated with the Knights of Pythias. His political allegiance was
given to the democracy, Ijut the demands of his profession left him no time
for activity in political circles. His work was at all times characterized by
system, thoroughness and accuracy, and he gained reputation as one of the
best court reporters in jNIissouri. He was, moreover, known as a social, genial
gentleman, whose good qualities won him warm personal friendship and high
regard. He was a young man of but thirty-three years at the time of his
death and his demise was greatly regretted by all who knew him.

WILLIAM H. ROSS.

William H. Ross, who died in 1893, was ^^ell known in real-estate circles
in Kansas City. A native of Pennsylvania, he was born in 1838 and in
1850 came to the middle west with his parents, who settled at Bloomington,
Illinois. His father was Mark Ross, while his mother, prior to her marriage,
bore the name of Hester Schmider. In the family of this worthy couple were
ten children.

AVilliam II. Ross was a youth of twelve years at the time of the removal
of the family from the Keystone state to Illinois. There he resided until after
the outbreak of the Civil war, Avhen, espousing the cause of the. Union, he
enlisted for one hundred days' service as a member of the One Hundred and
Forty-fifth Illinois Volunteer Infantry. Following the close of hostilities he
continued his residence in Illinois until 1875, when he removed to Missouri,
settling at Sedalia. There he engaged in the re.al-estate and loan business
and in both brancbes secured a good clientage, negotiating many important
property transfers and placing many loans. Becoming deeply interested in
the state and its welfare, he studied the question of Kansas City's opportuni-
ties, and in 1887. witli firm faith in its future, came here to live. Here he
again opi-rated in I'cal e.-tati' for >ix years, or until his death.

In 1864, at I>loomington, IlHnois, Mr. Ross was united in marriage to
Miss May Toms, wbo was born in Princeton, New" Jersey, and in 1854 went
with her parents to Illinois, the family home being established in McLean
county. I'nto this marriage were l)orn five children: George C, now of
Kansas City; Charles T., who is agent for the Vnilcd States Express Com-
pany: Kdmund M. and (filbert V., both of this city; and Nellie C, the wife
of William K. Ludlow, of Indiana])olis, Indiana.

Mr. Ross was always a very active and successful ])usine,ss man, and his
sons are following in liis footsteps and are meeting with ])rospprity in their
undertaking.-. Mr. Ro.ss gave his ]»olitical .-^np])oi1 to liie repul)lican ]iarty

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 39

and always kept well informed on the questions and issues of the day. He was
much interested in temperance work and did all in his power to further that
cause. His life was actuated by noble principles and high ideals and was
always in harmony with his profession as a member of the Christian church,
in which he took a most helpful part. Loyal to his church, progressive in
citizenship, faithful in friendship and devoted to his family, there were in
his life record those splendid traits of character which endear a man to his
fellowmen and cause his memory to be sacredly cherished when he has passed
away.

FRANCIS M. HAYWARD.

Francis M. Hayward was born at Walpole, New Hampshire, February
28, 1S56, his parents being .John W. and Esther C. (Morse) Hayward, natives
of Massachusetts and New Hampshire, respectively. His father prepared for
Harvard at the Boston Latin School, but owing to a severe illness was obliged
to abandon his college course and become a New Hampshire farmer. He
held many town offices and in the sixties was a member of the New Hamp-
shire legislature, and now, at the ripe age of eighty, is town clerk of Walpole.
The grandfather, .John W. Hayward, and great-grandfather, Lemuel Hay-
ward, were both graduates of Harvard College, the former a lawyer, the
latter a surgeon in the Revolution, and attaining eminence in his profession
as a physician in Boston.

Francis M. Hayward graduated at Dartmouth in the class of 1880, and
afterward studied law for two years at the Harvard Law School. In the fall
of 1882 he came west, settling at Topeka, where he was admitted to the bar
the same year. He formed a partnership with F. H. Foster, of Topeka, under
the name of Foster & Hayward, and continued in such firm till the spring
of 1887, when he came to Kansas City to become the attorney of a mortgage
company. In 1888 he formed a law partnership with Frederick W. Griffin,
under the name of Hayward & Griffin, and was associated with Mr. Griffin
till 1893. In 1898 he formed another partnership with John Muckle, under
the name of Muckle & Hayward; later the firm became Muckle, Hayward
& McLane. Afterward Mr. Muckle withdrew from the firm, leaving it as it
now is, Hayward & McLane. In 1905 Mr. Hayward became associate city
counselor, which position he still occupies. Mr. Hayward has represented
many large interests, serving his clients with diligence and fidelity.

In 1903 he wrote a little book on ''Local Assessments in Missouri" — a
work of value to attorneys. His standing at the bar is a merited tribute to
his ability. In no profession is there a career more open to talent or one in
which success depends so largely upon individual effort or capability. In the
discussion of intricate questions before the court he displays a knowledge
that could only be based upon thorough preparation. He is quick to perceive
and guard the dangerous phases of his cases, and never fails to assault his
adversary at the point where his armor is weakest.

40 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

On the loth of June, 1884, Mr. Ilayward was married to ^liss Kate S.
Davis, of Gale.sburg, Illinois, and they are now the parent^; of two sons and
a daughter: Charles D., Margaret and George M. The eldest, although but
twenty-tAVO years of age, holds the position of receiving teller in the First
National Bank of Kansas City. The family attend St. George's (Episcopal)
church, in which Mr. Ilayward is vestryman and warden, while he has just
comj^lcted his second term as president of the church club of the diocese of
Kansas City.

Mr. Ilayward has never before sought an elective office, but is now the
republican candidate for judge of the Circuit Court of Jackson County,
Missouri, Division Six.

DAVID 0. SMART.

David 0. Smart, w^hose recent death deprived Kansas City of one of its
most prominent and successful residents, was for many years engaged in
the banking, real-estate and stock brokerage business. His labors contrib-
uted to the city's commercial prosperity and to its material development.
He laid out the D. 0. Smart addition to Kansas City and from pioneer times
until hi* death was an active factor in much that contributed to the city's
upbuilding. He was born near Independence, Missouri, February 15, 1843,
a son of James and Elizabeth Smart, both of whom were natives of Ken-
tucky, whence they removed to Independence during the early period of
the existence of that place, which is now a suburb of Kansas City. The dis-
trict bore little resemblance to the now populous region. The father pur-
chased a large farm there and carried on general agricultural pursuits
throughout the remainder of his life. Both he and his wife spent their re-
maining days there and were prominent not only in promoting the farming
interests of the community but also in advancing the moral development
through their earnest and active cooperation in the work of the Christian
church, Mr. Smart assisting in organizing the first society of that denomi-
nation in Jackson county.

David 0. Smart, entering school at the usual age, remained a student
in Independence until 1860, when his parents sent him to Bethany College,
a school at Bethany, West Virginia, inniiilnincd by (he Christian church and
established by Alexander Campbell. It was one of the well known secular
schools of the early days and many young men in Jackson county attended
it. Mr. Smart was pursuing his studies there at the time of the outbreak of
the Civil war in 1801. Putting aside hi< text-books soon after the surrender
of Fort Sumter in April of that year, he went to Bath county, Kentucky,
where he spent seven months, and then returned to Missouri in December,
1801. On the 12th of August. 1862, he enlisted in the Confederate army
and participated in the battles of Lone Jack, Newtonia, Cain Hill, Prairie
Grove, Springfield and Hartville. He eventually became sergeant major in

D. 0. SMART.

PUBuc Library

ASTOR, LENOX
ITILDEN FOUI--? Tl^iW'"-

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 43

Shelby's fighting brigade and continued with the Confederate forces until
muiStered out of the, service at the close of the war.

Following the cessation of hostilities Mr. Smart returned home and ac-
cepted a position as bookkeej^er in a bank in Independence. A little later
he came, to Kansas City, where he embarked in the banking business with
€harles Gudgell under the firm name of David 0. Smart & Company, the
business being carried on for about six years in the Junction building. Then
David 0. Smart & Company consolidated with the Maslin Bank, with which he
was connected until 1878. Later Mr. Smart became heavily interested in the
cattle business in jpartnership with AVilliam A. and John R. Towers, under the
firm name of Towers & Gudgell, having an office in the Commercial block.
Mr. Smart attended to the work of the office while Mr. Towers had charge
of the buying of the stock throughout the country. At this time they owned
one of the largest cattle ranches in wTstern Oklahoma, known as the 0. X.
Ranch. At the same time Mr. Smart held large interests in real estate, hav-
ing invested in property all over Kansas City. He owned considerable busi-
ness property including the buildings now occupied by the Corn Belt Bank,
the Parisian Cloak Company, the Household Fair, and several others. He
also laid out the D. 0. Smart addition in the northeastern part of the city
and there as a speculative builder he erected and sold many of the fine res-
idences that now adorn that section. In business affairs he was notably
prompt, energetic and reliable, placing his investments judiciously, while
seldom, if ever, was his judgment at error in determining the value of any
business proposition or opportunity. He continued in the real-estate busi-
ness throughout his remaining days and left to his family valuable property
Iioldings. He built and owned a number of flat or apartment buildings in
various districts and his improvement of property led to rise in values in
"various sections where he operated.

On the 11th of October, 1866, Mr. Smart was married to Miss Alice M.
TV'alrond, a native of Kansas City and a daughter of Madison and Caroline
Walrond, both of whom were natives of Kentucky and became pioneer res-
idents here. Mr. Walrond engaged in building contracting during the
greater part of his life and was also a large property owner, at one time hav-
ing the eighty-acre tract, which is now Smart's addition to Kansas City. Mr.
Walrond resided here until his death and his widow afterward became the
wife of G. W. McLeod, who was engaged in the transfer and bus business
in Kansas City and died here. Mrs. McLeod afterward became the wife of
Edward P. Graves, with whom she is now residing at No. 3000 East Sixth
street at the age of seventy-eight years. Mr. Grave* is not engaged in any
active business at present. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Smart Avere born a daughter
and two sons: Emma, the wife of James S. Donaldson, who is a member of
the real-estate and fire insurance firm of Donaldson & Smart with offices in
the R. A. Long building; Thomas A., who married Jimmie Laudeman and
resides on a farm near Lee's Summit, Missouri; and David 0., who wedded
Ann Lewis and is the junior partner of the firm of Donaldson & Smart. Mr.
and Mrs. Donaldson reside with Mrs. D. 0. Smart. Sr. The family of D. 0.
Smart. Jr., reside at 357 Gladstone boulevard.

44 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

While David 0. Smart achieved a measure of success that would entitle
him to distinction, it wns other traits of his character that won for him the
unqualified love, confidence and trust of those with whom he was associated.
He was one of the most prominent church Avorkers of the city, both he and
his wife holding membership in the Independence Boulevard Christian
church. The la.st years of his life were devoted to church and public work,
in which coiuiection his influence was far-reaching and beneficial. He was
one of the founders of the Prospect Avenue Christian church — the home of
the present church before the stone edifice on the boulevard was erected.
He was president of the National Board of Church Extension of the Chris-
tian church from its organization in 1S88 and just prior to his death was
again elected for the nineteenth year. During his incumbency and, as the
result of his ;il)le management and financial ability, the funds of tiie board
were increased from ten thousand to about six hundred thousand dollars.
Because of his having charge of this work the headquarters of the national
extension connnittee were alwavs maintained in Kansas Citv. For over
forty years Mr. Smart vras either elder or deacon of his church, was a teacher
in the Sunday school at the time of his death and each Sunday for many
years taught a class in school. He -was thus engaged when the angel of
death called him. November 9, 1898. It was about nine o'clock in the
evening and the young people's revival service w^as about to close in the Inde-
pendence Boulevard Christian church. About fiftee.n hundred persons were
present and on the occasion Mr. Smart taught a class of fifteen young ladies.
Following the singing of two hymns, the Rev. Mr. Small delivered a sermon
upon the subject, "What shall I do to be saved," and before pronouncing
the benediction he called upon Mr. Smart for a few remarks, whereupon the
latter requested the audience to stand and read with him the beautiful hymn,
"All my class for Jesus." Before they had finished those aroimd Mr. Smart
noticed that he had become very pale and the minister asked if there was a
physician in the audience. Four responded and after laying him down on
a seat they arranged to carry him across the street to his residence, but he
died before reaching the house. At the time of his demise Mrs. Smart w^as
visiting her son at Lee's Summit. For several years Mr. Smart had been
in ill health bnl his interest in the affairs of life never diminished, espec-
ially in relation to those things which pertained to the moral development
of the race.

In politics Mr. Smart was a democrat but voted for the man whom he
believed In'st (lualified for office rather than for party. He was elected upon
the democratic ticket a member of the state legislature. This was the only
political office that he ever held excepting that he was judge of elections at
different times. He owned and had in his po.ssession the first park certificate
that was issued in Kansas City, and in accordance witli his request Mrs.
Smart has recently had it mounted and framed and placed in the public
library.

No man in Kansas City had more friends than David 0. Smart, Hifl
entire life was passed within it* borders or adjacent thereto in the town of
Independence and hi,= history was always an open hook which all might read.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 45

While he possessed excellent business ability that enabled him to acquire
wealth there was not one single esoteric phase in his career. On the contrary,
his business methods were such as would ever bear the closest scrutiny and
investigation. In all the relations of his life he was actuated by high and
lofty principles which had their foundation in his Christian belief.
Religion was to him a matter of every day living and not of Sunday worship.
As few men have done, he realized individual obligation and recognized the
truth of universal brotherhood. He held friendship inviolable, his family
ties as a sacred trust and citizenship as a duty. Quickly touched by a tale of
sorrow or distress his sympathy responded without hesitation for the relief
of those in need of assistance. He never gave from any sense of duty but
because of his genuine interest in his fellowmen and his desire to aid those
less fortunate than himself. He was, moreover, a strong man, strong in his
honor and his good name, strong in his fidelity to social and home ties and
in his supi)ort of everything that he believed to be right. Of him it may
well be said,

"His life was gentle and the elements
so mixed in him that nature might stand up
and say to all the world, 'this was a man'."

CARL ANDREW .JACKSON, M. D.

Dr. Carl AndrcAv .Jackson, jihy-ician and surgeon, practicing in Kan-
sas City, was here born on the ISth of March, 1877, a son of Algot R. and
Hannah (Pearson) Jackson, both of whom came from Sweden in the early
'60s and settled in Kansas City, where they were married. Here the father
still resides and is proprietor of the Kansas City Show Case AVorks, but the
mother died September 18, 1904. In their family were four children : Henry
W., secretary of the Kansas City Show Ca.>^e Works; Algot M., vice president
of the company; and Amie Virginia, at home.

The other member of the family is Carl A. Jackson, of this review,
who pursued a public-school education in Kansas City and after completing
the school course entered the Kansas City College of Pharmacy in 1893 and
was graduated therefrom in 1895 with the Ph. G. degree. He next entered
the University Medical College of Kansas City and won his M. D. degree
by graduation in 1897. For a year he engaged in the drug business on his
own account here, after which he enlisted in the Forty-fourth Volunteer
Infantry and spent two years in medical service in the United States Army
in the Philippines.

Returning to his native land in 1901, Dr. .Jackson began general prac-
tice in Kansas City and has been very successful here. In 1905 he was ap-
pointed city health officer and reappointed in 1907, so that he is now serving
for the second term. He has constantly promoted his ability through reading.

46 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

research and experience and also promotes his knowledge through the inter-
change of thought and experience as a member of the American Medical
Association, the Missouri INIedical Society and the Jackson County INIedical
Society.

On the 5th of October, 1904, Dr. Jackson was married to Kathryn Rob-
erts, of jMontreal, Canada, and they have one daughter, Virginia, two years
of age. Dr. Jackson is a thirty-second degree Mason and is a member of and
medical examiner for the Maccabees, the Yeomen, the Knights of Pythias,
the Foresters, the Good Templars, the Protected Home Circle, Svithiod and
the N. N. E. Swedish orders, also medical examiner for the Prudential Life
Insurance Company. His membership relations also connect him with the
Spanish-American War V^eterans, the National Society of the Army of the
Philippines, the Monitor Club and the Missouri Republican Club. The last
named indicates his political preference, his stalwart support having been
given to the republican party since age conferred upon him the right of fran-
chise. His uniform courtesy and geniality combine with his broad knowl-
edge and capability to render him a successful and popular physician.

JUDGE WILLIAM THOMSON.

Hon. William Thomson first saw the light on the 24th day of February,
1845, at Linlithgow, Scotland, around which the romantic memory of ^lary,
the beautiful but unfortunate queen, still lingers. His parents were both
Scotch, his father, Thomas Thomson, and his mother, Marion Somerville,
having descended from old and respected families of that people. When the
subject of this sketch was but five years old, he removed with his parents
from Glasgow to Chicago, Illinois, where his father for years was engaged
in tb;^ husiup-ss of manufacturing, and until his death in 1863. William
obtained his early education at the Dearborn school in Chicago until the age
of fourteen, when he graduated from that institution to the Chicago high
school, which was the first of its kind in that city, afterwards attending the
preparatory department of the old Chicago University in 1832, entering that
college as a freshman the following year, and graduating with his degree
of Bachelor of Arts in June, 1867, with the honor of salutatorian of his class.
During his college days, the nation, struggling for its life, required the as-
sistance of both old and 3^oung, and he responded to the call to arms, and
his studies w^re thus temporarily interrupted by his enlistment with others
from the University in the One hundred and Thirty-fourth Regiment of
Illinois Volunteers, in May, 1864, but Avere resumed on his discharge from
the army in November of that year. On his graduation from college, he
\v;i- calLed to the ))()-iti(iii of ]»i-iii('ipal of tlic schools of Toulon, Illinois, and
the following year he occupied a similar position in Astoria, in the same
state. He always had an overweening desire to become a lawyer, and during
the years of his school teaching, Blackstone and Kent were his companions,
with whoso toxt-books he hoonmo fnnn'liar. T"^pnn his return to Chicago in

WILLIAM THOMSON.

PUBlIC ^.^. ARY

ASTOR, LENOX

TILDEN FCiJr.)».-;710N^

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 49

May, 1S69, he entered the hu\ office of Judge S. M. Moore and Barney
Caufield. who afterwards represented his district in congress. He also became
a student in the law school of the Chicago Univereity. He was admitted to
the bar in October, 1869, and began practicing his profession at Chicago with
Robert W. Moore but soon the advice of Horace Greeley and the attractions
of the growing west influenced him to leave Chicago in April, 1870, and go
to Burlingame, Kansas. Before the autumn of that year he was appointed by
Governor Harvey to be the probate judge of Osage county. After serving to the
end of his term he was elected to the office of county attorney, which he filled
with vigor and energy. His law practice had so increased while fiilling that posi-
tion that he declined to be a candidate for reelection but his friends presented
his name to the republican convention for nomination as a candidate to the
office of state senator, but he was defeated by one vote. In 1878 he was elected
secretary of the republican state committee of Kansas, and served in that
caj^acity for two years. He Avas secretary of the state delegation to the repub-
lican national convention of 1880, which became memorable as the battle-
ground l)i'tween the old guard, the 306 of Grant, and the enthusiastic forces
of Blaine, and resulted in the nomination and subsequent election of the
revered l)ut unfortunate Garfield. During the same year he was given a
handsome vote at the Kansas republican state convention for the nomination
for attorney general of that state. During the presidential campaigns of
1884 and 1888, he was an active republican and campaigned the state for the
nominees of his party. In 1889 the legislature created the thirty-fifth judicial
district, composed of Osage, Waljaunsee and Pottawatomie counties, and Gov-
ernor Humphrey appointed "William Thomson to be its .first judge, and in
the fall of that year he was unanimously elected to the office, even the demo-
crats in their convention endorsing the nomination he had received from the
republican party. At the next judicial election in 1893, so great was his
popularity that although the populist majority in the district was overwhelm-
ing, and every other republican candidate went down in defeat. Judge
Thomson was reelected by a large majority. In 1897 he again received the
nomination and was reelected without serious opposition and served to the
end of his term in 1902, when he retired from the bench to renew the prac-
tice of his profession. He was admitted to practice in the United States su-
preme court in January, 1898. Judge Thomson stood in the front rank of
the judges of his state, and his opinions were so well considered that they
rarely met reversal. He is active in mind and was industrious and pains-
taking in the preparation of his decrees. He is a student by habit, a scholar
in address, and possesses great broadness in his processes of reasoning.

He was president of the Kansas State Bai Association, which embraces
the best of the legal light- of the stat?. during the years 1897 and 1898, and
chose civil service as the topic of his annual address. This address entitled
"Not to the ^'ictor'' was largely quoted by the press throughout the nation,
and the Chicago Times-Herald editoriallv declared that it was bv far the
strongest and ablest presentation of the cause of civil service reform that
any of its friends had thus far made. He is a pleasing and eloquent speaker
of graceful delivery, and his prepared addresse- are models of English com-

50 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

jjosition. In 1898, he was strongly urged by the bar of the state of Kansas
upon the attention of President McKinley, for appointment as federal judge,
but the United States senator of Kansas, whose will by custom was supreme,
secured the appointment for a former law partner. His entire life has been
devoted to his profession, and he has accepted only such public positions as
have been in line ■Avith it, and has never been defeated at the polls for any
office to which he aspired ; and although repeatedly requested by many of his
party to become a candidate for congressional honors, he has as often refused
so to do, because such a course would havo interfered Avith his professional
career.

In 1904 he was one of the forty republicans of Kansas, who met at
Topeka and inaugurated the ''Boss Buster" movement, Avhich culminated in
the overthrow of the old regime in republican politics, and led to the subse-
quent success of the Hon. Walter Roscoe Stubbs and Governor E. "W. Hoch.
It is said that at that meeting of the immortals, when it seemed as if success
could not be had, and the members of the body were becoming discouraged,
Judge Thomson, filled with enthusiasm and determination, in an impassioned
speech of twenty minutes, so aroused the body, that they determined to pro-
ceed on the lines contemplated, which led to ultimate victory.

In 1904, desiring a wider field of activity and to specialize his work,
he removed his residence to Kansas City, where he had had some interests
for some time previously. There he established the law firm of Thomson,
Stanley & Price, and has assiduously devoted his time and energy to the prac-
tice of corporation law and obtained in that field an enviable success. He
is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic and Masonic fraternities
and of the college association of Phi Delta Theta. He affiliates with the Pres-
byterian church, as might be expected in one so direct from Scotch ancestry.

Judge Thomson was married at Burlingame, Kansas, March 26, 1874,
to Sarah E. Hudnall, of Astoria, Illinois, who had been one of his pupils
Avhen he was teaching at that place. To this union was born one daughter,
Maud Somerville, who was graduated from St. Cecelia Seminary at Holden,
Missouri, in 1898, and in June, 1908, was married at Kansas City to AVilliam
LeRoy Holtz, a Latin professor of the Kansas State Normal at Emporia,
where she now resides. In his social character. Judge Thomson is winsome
and companionable, and at his home, geniality and hospitality abound. He
is vigorous, active and energetic, and he lightly carries his years.

LYSANDER R. MOORE.

So inseparably is the life record of Lysander R. Moore interwoven with
the commercial development and civic interests of Kansas City that no his-
tory would be complete without extended mention of his career. The latter
years of his life were spent as a retired capitalist and formerly he figured as
a most prominent and active l)usiness man, who, coming to Kansas City in
1871, became idciitiTicd with wliat is now the largest retail dry-goods store.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 51

conducted at the present time under the name of the Emery, Bird, Thayer
Dry Goods Comi3any on Eleventh, Wahiut and Grand streets. Such was
the integrity of his business record and the enterprise of his methods that he
enjoyed in the fullest degree the respect and confidence of his contemporaries
and the admiration of the general public.

He was a native of Mecklenburg county, Virginia, born January 3, 1831.
His father, Thomas Moore, was a native of the Old Dominion and the fam-
ily is one of the oldest mentioned in the early records of the country. The
first direct ancestor of this branch of the family of whom we have authentic
knowledge was Thomas Moore, for whom various members of the family in
succeeding generations were named. He came to this country when it was
still numbered among the colonial possessions of Great Britain, accompanied
by two brothers, who, however, settled in other sections of America. Thomas
Moore established his home in Virginia, locating in Mecklenburg county,
which continued to be the family seat until recent years. Thomas Moore,
father of our subject, was married in early manhood to Julia A. Royster,
also descended from an ancestry honorable and distinguished. Members of
her family were likewise prominent in connection with public afi'airs during
the formative period of the history of the new world.

Lysander R. Moore acquired a common-school education in Virginia and
at the age of nineteen years left home, going to Montgomery, Ala'bama, where
he was associated with his uncles, A. and W. R. Royster, in the dry-goods
business. He remained with them for six years when, thinking he would find
an occupation that was less confining to be more congenial and beneficial and
having faith in the agricultural possibilities of Alabama, he there purchased
a cotton plantation and turned his attention to raising the chief product of
the South. In 1866 he sold his Alabama plantation and purchased the well
known Junius Ward farm situated near Georgetown, Kentucky. It was one
of the finest and best improved farms in the state, splendidly equipped with
all of the modern conveniences and accessories that indicate progressive hus-
bandry. For four years Mr. ]\Ioore found his time profitably occupied with
the interests of his Kentucky farm and thoroughly enjoyed the supervision
of his agricultural interests.

In the meantime his brother, L. T. Moore, had become interested in
mercantile afi'airs in Kansas 'City, Missouri, and desired Lysander R. Moore
to join him here. Accordingly in 1871 the latter disposed of his property
in Kentucky and removed to w^estern Missouri, becoming a member of the
mercantile firm of Bullene, Moore & Emery of Kansas City. Soon after pur-
chasing an interest in this rapidly growing business he became its financial
manager and in that capacity gave supervision to the numerous and im-
portant details which accompany so great and responsible a task. He pos-
sessed excellent powers of management, combined with keen sagacity and a
recognition of the possibilities as well as the exigencies of the future. Com-
plex business problems he readily solved and the solution was in almost every
case found to be the correct one. His able control of his department was an
important factor in the success of the house until 1894, when he sold his stock
in the company, which had in the meantime been incorporated, as Bullene,

52 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Moore & Emery. His intense and well directed activity in former years made
the rest of his later life well merited. As prosperity had attended him he
had made extensive and judicious investments, which included large purchases
of Kansas City property, together with varied personal holdings and real estate
in oth€r parts of the country. In 1887 he invested in a cattle ranch in Texas
and for years was owner of one of the finest herds of high-grade cattle in the
southwest. About 1900, however, he disposed of most of his property, sell-
ing his live stock and land at a time when prices were high and his profit
was therefore gratifying. He has been financially connected with various
other interests and wherever his judgment has been a factor in mapping out
the policy or shaping the course of an enterprise it has profited thereby.
Moreover he belonged to that class of American rejDresentative men, who in
advancing- individual interests also promote the general welfare.

On the 19th of December, 1854, Mr. Moore was united in marriage to
Miss Mary A. Thomas, of Lowndesboro, Lowndes county, Alabama. They
became the parents of eight children and the four who yet survive are all
residents of Kansas City, namely: George T., who is vice president of the
Weber Gas Engine Company; Rev. Charles W. Moore, pastor of the Institu-
tional Methodist Episcopal church, South; Alice, the Avife of William M.
Reid, a capitalist with offices at No. 412 Postal Telegraph building; and
Lysander R., who is engaged in the real-estate business and is a member of
the Thayer, Moore Brokerage Company.

Mr. and Mrs. Moore evidenced their Christian faith by their member-
ship in the Methodist Episcopal church, South, in the work of which Mr.
Moore took a most deep and helpful interest, doing all in his power to ad-
vance the various church activities. No good work done in the name of
charity or religion sought his aid in vain and he was a most generous con-
tributor to the support of interests for the moral development of the race.
In 1887 he furnislied the funds for the erection of a church and parsonage in
Shanghai, China. It was built for the Methodist Episcopal church, South,
and was one of the finest missionary churches in China, becoming head-
quarters of \Methodism in that country. In his political views Mr. Moore was
a stalwart democrat but while never actively interested in politics in his own
behalf he stood as a champion of all that pertaint'd to municipal progress or
was a matter of civic virtue or civic pride. There are few men who have
realized so fully tlic rcsjionsibilities and obligations of wealth. His private
charities were many, yet were so unostentatiously made that often a generous
gift was knoAvn only to himself and the recipient. He lived to enjoy in his
latter years tlie fViiits of a well s])ont life and of Avisely directed business
activity.

In the latter ])art of 1!)(I1 his licnltli bcc;iiiio impaired and. lioping for
benefit, he .spent several months in ihe -milh. Returning home, his liealth
gradually failed until on the lOtli of A|iiil, 1902, he passed away. No family
has held a more ]»n»ininent oi- envinhle position in Kansas City. Such were
his virtues and his characteristics tlinl Mr. ]Moore was spoken of in terms only
of the highest esteem. His entire life was actuated by honorable purposes
toward his fellowmen and his eonntiy. While he never courted popularity,

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 53

he held friendship inviolable and, a.6 true worth could always win his regard,
he had a very extensive circle of friends from every walk in life. The pub-
lic work that he performed as a private citizen made extensive demands upon
his time, his thought and his energies. In his life were the elements of
greatness because of the use he made of his talents and of his opportunities,
his thoughts being given to the mastery of great problems and the fulfillment
of his duty as a man in his relations to his fellowmen and as a citizen in his
relations to his state and country.

T. H. BEEKMAN.

AVhile a native of the east, T. H. Beekman has spent the greater j)art
of his life west of the Mississippi river and in all of his interests and associa-
tions has been characterized b}' that enterprising, progressive spirit which has
been the dominant factor in the upbuilding of this great section of the
country. He was born in Schoharie county, New York, in 1842. His father,
II. Beekman, removing to the west, settled at Des Moines, Iowa, where he
engaged in merchandising for years. lie married Lucinda Eldridge, of New
York state, and they became the parents of six children, four of whom sur-
vive. Of this number T. H. Beekman was about fifteen years of age when
he accompanied his parents on their removal to Des Moines. He became con-
nected with his father in merchandising and so continued in control of a
eon.'^tantly growing business until the spring of 1881, when he removed to St.
Joseph, Missouri. There he conducted a wholesale hardware business for a
time and afterward was connected with the banking interests of St. Joseph
as one of its leading financiei-s until 1894, in which year he came to Kansas
City. For five years he was cashier of the American National Bank here and
then turned his attention to the brokerage business. He also organized the
Boston & Kansas City Cattle Loan Company.

His resourceful business ability and ready recognition of opportunities
have led him into large and important undertakings and he has been the
l)romoter of a number of interests which have had direct bearing upon the
welfare of the city during the fourteen years of his residence here. Not only
has he figured prominently in the brokerage business and in connection with
the Boston & Kansas City Cattle Loan Company, but likewise organized the
Beekman Lumber Company for the manufacture of lumber and its sale to
the wholesale trade. Of this company he is president, with G. H. Lowry as
secretary. The business has already assumed extensive proportions, the com-
pany owning pine mills in Louisiana and hardwood mills in Arkansas,
while the output is shipped to all sections of the country and sold to the
wholesale trade. Mr. Beekman is now engaged in organizing and promoting
the Beekman Sawmill Company for the manufacture of lumber. He readily
sees the relation of interests and the possibility for the coordination and
combination of forces, so that his business interests are constantly expanding.
From early age he has displayed an aptitude for successful management and

54 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Las continually broadened hLs capabilities through varied experience. He
has learned to disregard what is unimportant, to utilize what can prove of
value, and his fellow citizens know him as one of the foremost business men
of weste.rn Missouri.

In 1867 Mr. Beekman was married, in Savannah, Missouri, to Miss Car-
rie A. Hatton and they had three sons, Charles H., H. H. and George H.
Mr. Beekman belongs to the National Lumbermen's Association and to the
Manufacturers' Association of Kansas City. For this city he has the most
contagious enthusiasm. He regards it as the foremost American city of the
west, with larger possibilities and greater opportunities and his own enter-
prise is proving a most valuable factor in its promotion and development.

CHARLES DAVID PARKER.

It is imperative in this connection that prominent mention be made of
Charles D. Parker, who like the majority of great men of the west has fought
his way to the position he now occupies, as one of Missouri's prominent and
influential citizens. He is a representative of an old colonial family, early
established in England. His father, David Howe Parker, by occupation a
farmer, came from Rutland county, Vermont, in August, 1836, and settled
in Garden Plain, Whiteside county, Illinois, being one of the first settlers
in tliat part of the state. He aided materially in the reclamation of a
hitherto Avild and unsettled district for the purpose of civilization. He built
the first frame house in Garden Plain, Whiteside county, and for years kept
^n old-fashioned tavern. He was a man of marked personality, was well
known throughout the state among the early pioneer settlers and was reputed
the Avealthiest man of the county. He was one of the first to answer his
country's appeal for assistance during the late Rebellion. He was born in
1812 and died in 1876.

In the maternal line Charles I);i\i(l Pnrkcr is a descendant of the Shurt-
lefFs who came fi-oni l^igland prior to KioO and settled in Plymoutli, Mass-
achusetts, where the f.n nily was represented for three generations, one of the
direct ancestors being Captain William Shurtleff, who won his title in the
luilitia service and who sei*ved as a delegate to the provincial assembly. He
-was l.oi'n in 1657 and died at Plymouth in 1720 and was interred in P)urial
Hill, where a marble tombstone still gives tlic records of liis life. Tlie
Shurtleff family has fignred with distinction in connection Avith the history
of this country. To William Shurtleff wo are indebted for the early records
of the town of PlvnKtnth. Massachusetts, wheic he served as town treasurer
from 1707 to 1708. while latei* he served as town clerl<. He was also a well
known snrxcyoi- of his time nnd bnilt the first wharf and warehonse at
Plymouth. His possession.^ entitled him to classification with the wealthy
men of his day. .Vnolhei- meinliei' of tlie family SiM'ved with distinction a*
inavoi- of Bo-ton.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^r '* ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^1

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C. D. PARKER.

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HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 57

Charles D. Parker was born at Garden Plain, Illinois, July 12, 1853,
and received his early education in the public schools of Whiteside county,
where he was reared to agricultural life, early becoming familiar with the
duties and labors of the farm. He afterward engaged in the raising of fine
stock and in buying and selling live stock, grain and other farm com-
modities until December, 1887, when, believing he might secure better ad-
vantages in the business world of the west, he removed to Kansas City.
Time has proven the wisdom of his judgment and his operations in this
section have been crowned with success — an indication of his ability, fore-
sight and capable management. He immediately engaged in the real-estate
and loan busine,ss, locating his offices in the new Nelson building, remaining
there about one year, when he removed to the American Bank building, be-
ing its first tenant. He removed from this location in 1893 to the Massa-
chusetts building, remaining there until the completion of the new building
for the fir-t National Bank in February, 1903, where he is now conducting
an extensive real-estate, loan and fire insurance business, having added the
last department in 1893. He is associated with his brother, Herbert Parker,
under the firm style of C. D. Parker & Company, and they rank with the
most prominent representatives in this field of business in Kansas City. A
man of resourceful ability, C. D. Parker has not confined his efforts alone
to one line, as his counsel and unabating energy are considered valuable
assets in Kansas City's business circles. He is now the president and a large
stockholder of the United States Water & Steam Supply Company, a steam
fitting and plumbing supply house.

On the 6th of January. 1876. Charles D. Parker was united in marriage
to Miss Amanda Sutherland, of Fulton, Illinois. Of this union there was
born one son. Carl Sutherland Parker, who married Susan Amsden, of Abi-
lene, Kansas, and they have one son and two daughters: Charles David
Parker, Elizabeth and Marv.

Mr. Parker is preeminently a man of affairs and one who has wielded
a wide influence. He has had no desire or aspiration for political honors,
although his opinions are of weight in political circles. The only position
of that character which he has ever held was while serving as a member of
the board of supervisors of Whiteside county, Illinois, having the distinction
of being the youngest member ever chosen for that position, his age being
twenty-three. He was also a member of the board of education and presi-
dent of the Agricultural Society of that county. His public-spirited interest
in Kansas City has found tangible proofs in his efforts for many movements
for the general good; he has contributed his time, money and influence to
the public progress and the city's growth and substantial development. He
has served as president of the Real Estate Exchange and inaugurated many
important movements which were of benefit to that association. He has
also been president of the Implement, Vehicle & Hardware Club, also
president of the Commercial Club — organizations which have for their ob-
ject the betterment of trade condition? and business life in Kansas City. He
is also a member of the Kansas City Athletic Club, the Evanston Golf Club,
Middav Club and has served on the board of director- of the Provident As-

58 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

sociation for over twelve years. His fraternal relations include various
branches of jMasonry, having attained the thirty-second degree of the Scot-
tish Rite, while he is also connected with the Oriental conimandery, K. P.,
and with the great Ararat Temple of the ]\Iystic Shrine. He belongs to the
Sons of the American Revolution and the .Vrchaeological Society.

His broad humanitarianism has been indicted by his active coopera-
tion in various benevolent interests. He has been one of the trustees of the
Gillis Orphans Home, known as the Children's Home and the old Couples
Home at Twenty-second and Tracy streets, and is now treasurer of their
endownment fund. He was one of the building committee that took charge
of the construction of the edifice for INIrs. S. B. Armour, who contributed
forty-two thousand dollars, the whole cost of the building as it now stands.
These are charitable institutions and Mr. Parker has devoted much of his
time to the work and care of the unfortunate in both institutions. Recog-
nizing indiA'idual responsibility in man's relation to his fellowman, *he-= has
performed every duty with a sense of conscientious obligation" aiid his well
spent and honorable life commands the respect of all who know him.

WILLIAM DAVIS FOSTER, :\LL).

Dr. William Davis Foster, dean of the Homeopathic Medical College and
one of the most distinguished homeopathic practitioners west of the Mis-
sissippi, was born in Van Buren county, Iowa, September 7, 1841.

His father, Joseph Foster, was a native of Vermont and a member of
Captain Thomas Waterman's Company and Colonel Dixon's Regiment of Ver-
mont Volunteers in the AVar of 1812. He is moreover, a descendant of some
of the best pioneer families of Essex and Middlesex counties in Massachu-
setts. In nearly every generation of the line there have been physicians
and the family has ever. been noted for the patriotism and progressive spirit
of its members and for their success as business men. In 1830 Joseph Foster
married Elizabeth Kummler, a descendant of a Swiss family etablished in
Pennsylvania during colonial days. In 1837 they canic westward to Iowa,
settling in Van l^urcii county, which at that time contained l^ut three white
families. The father was a college graduate and a profound scholar, who had
mastered several languages. Pie was a classmate of '"Pliaddeus Stevens, a noted
statesman in the middle of the nineteenth century. 'IMiivmghout his entire
life Joseph Foster was looked upon as the leader in all important enterprises
and for many years served as county judge. He died November 11, 1855,
and was long survived by his widow, who passed awa^' in Marion county,
Missouri, at the very remarkable age of ninety-four years.

In the family of six sons Dr. Foster, the youngest, i.'^ now the only sur-
vivoi'. He was educated in tlie public schools of his native town and when
sixteen years of age took up the study of medicine in Jacksonville, Illinois,
with Di". David Prince, a dLstinguished surgeon, as liis ])receptor. His
father's earlv death r)1)lio(^(l him (o make bi.~ own wav in (he world and his

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 59

studies were often interrupted by the necessity of procuring further means
but with undaunted energy and perseverance he made the best possible use
of his opportunities and in 1860 matriculated in the medical department of
the University of Pennsylvania, to supplement his earlier reading by collegiate
training. He left the school the following year, however, to enlist in the
Seventh Regiment of Missouri Volunteer Cavalry, and in that command
served under Surgeon Ellery P. Smith. Following the battle of Lone Jack,
in August, 1862, he assisted in establishing the hospital at Lexington, and
after the battle of Prairie Grove was similarly engaged at Fayetteville,
Arkansas. In 1863 he was commissioned surgeon of his regiment and held
that rank until the close of the war. He was present at the capture of Little
Rock and was actively engaged in hospital service there, and at various times
was a member of the boards of operating surgeons and also examined those
claiming exemjDtion from military service on account of disability.

AVhen the war was over Dr. Foster, who had acquired through medical
experience, knowledge far in excess of that obtained through college training,
located" for practice at Hannibal, Missouri, and entered into partnership with
Dr. George R. Birch. Not long afterward he began to investigate the sub-
ject of homeopathy, and, becoming convinced of its superiority, he adopted
that method of practice and in 1869 was graduated from the Homeopathic
Medical College at St. Louis, ^]\lissouri. He then resumed practice at Han-
nibal and was very successful as a representative of this school of medicine.
He has made steady progress in his professional work, gaining a wide reputa-
tion that is by no means local. In 1873 he assisted in organizing the Mis-
souri ^''alley ^Medical Association at Quincy, Illinois, the first homeopathic
body in the state outside of St. Louis. The following year at the special re-
quest of the faculty he delivered a short course of lectures on Diseases of the
Thorax before the Homeopathic Medical College at St. Louis.

In 1881 Dr. Foster became a resident of Kansas City. He has long been
recognized as one of the best surgeons in the state and one of the strongest
exponents of homeopathy in the United States. Investigation and research have
continually broadened his knowledge and promoted his efficiency, and he
has been a leader in those lines of thought and experience which have made
the practice of homeopathy of such great benefit to the race. For the first
five years of its existence he was associate editor of the ^ledical Arena, the
only homeopathic journal in the Missouri valley. In 1889 he was called to
fill the chair as professor of surgery in the Homeopathic INIedical College,
and in 1894 was elected dean of the faculty. The growth of this school was
largely due to his influence, and his zeal and devotion to the profession have
inspired his students to put forth their best efforts in a preparation for this
practice. He is now senior member of the American Institute of Homeop-
athy, with which he became associated in 1867. He also belongs to the Mis-
souri Institute of Homeopathy, the Kansas State Medical Society and the
International Association of Railway Surgeons, being entitled to membership
in the last mentioned by reason of the fact that he was chief surgeon of the
Kansas City, Osceola & Southern Railway. In 1886 he was sent as a dele-
gate to the International Homeopathic Medical Congress at Basel, Switzer-

60 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

land. He is often called to various parts of the middle west to perfonii diffi-
cult operations and has thus come to be known in the country as one of the
eminent surgeons of his day. The medical profession has reason to treasure
his record with gratitude and respect.

In 1878 Dr. Foster was married to ]\Irs. Christie K. Farwell, of Yonkers,
New York. He is a member of various charitable and fraternal organizations,
including the Loyal Legion and the Masonic fraternity. He is sympathetic,
kindly and companionable and in his life has embraced many opportunities
to assist his fellowmen. He is justly entitled to prominence as a practitioner
and an educator, yet wears his honors with becoming modesty.

GEORGE W. SEDGEWICK.

In pioneer times George W. Sedgewick. now deceased, became a resident
of Kansa- City and was a representative of a proioiiirnt family here, while
ill l)usiiie-s life he made a record that was coiiiniendiiWlc. aripiiring success
liv honorable methods that neither sought nor dfiiianded disguise. Lie ar-
rived here in 1867 and from that time forward was t )nnec-led with several
lines of business.

The family from which he was descended' was of Scotch-English origin,
well known and prominent in the east at an early day, the ancestry being
traced back to General Sedgewick. The father, Captain Theock)re Sedgewick,
was reared in Caanan. Connecticut, whence he removed to Lee, Massachussetts.
He was there residing and during the early part of the nineteenth century
and after the nullirtak of the second war with England in 1812. he enlisted
as a captain of artillery, serving throughout the period of hostilities. His
discharge papers arc now in possession of Mrs. George AV. Sedgewick. After
the war he returned to Canaan, Connecticut, where he and his wife spent
their remaining days.

(leorge \\\ Scdgcwidx. of this review, wa- rniite young at the time of his
parents' death, lie w;i- lioi-n in Lee, Mas.-adni-sctts. August 15, 1823, and
after being left an (»r|»lian went to live with an uncle in Ilarrisburg, Penn-
sylvania, where he attended the public schools and acquired a good English
education. After he had put aside his text-books he accepted a position as
train dispatcher in Harrisburg for the old Pennsylvania Central Railroad
Company, occupying that position for a few years, after which he went to
Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, being promoted to the position of station agent
for the same company. He continued in Pittsburg for several years and
was then made agent on the same road at Indiana, Pennsylvania, where he
continued until his removal westward to Kansas City in 1867.

Here Mi-. Sedgewick liecanie agent for the Kansas Pacific Railroad Con.
jiany, now the T'nion I'acilie. and a- the .-uperintendeiit was not rr,<idiiig
here at tliat time he al~(» attended to the latter position and aete(l as agent
and .superintendent until 1883. In that year, forming a j)artner-hip with
Edward Philli])s. under the linn name of Sedgewick t^ Phillips, he began

GEORGE W. SEDGEWICK.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 63

dealing in tie.-^. with offices at the corner of Ninth .^treet and Broadway.
Tliey took contracts from the railroad companies to furnish ties, which they
purchased throughout the country. Mr. Sedgewick continued in that bus-
iness for many years and was very successful, securing large contracts and
making extensive sales. He was also . engaged in the real-estate busi-
ness. When he arrived in Kansas City he purchased twenty acres
of land then at the outskirts of the town but now in the best residence
portion of the city. Later he subdivided this and sold off most of it
in town lots, and his Avidow yet owns a considerable part of it and thus has
valuable property. Mr. Sedgewick was regarded as a man of resourceful
business ability and his enterprise and industry were manifest also in banking
circles, he becoming a stockholder in the Security Savings Bank of this city.
In all his undertakings he was persistent, persevering and diligent and his
labors brought him a gratifying measure of prosperity.

Mr. Sedgewick was twice married ere his removal to the west. He first
wedded ]\Iiss Margaret Bell, who died in Indiana, Pennsylvania. There were
several children born to that union but only two are now living: Frank F.,
who resides in Olatlie, Kansas; and Lee M., of Kansas City, a prominent
business man, now president of the Sedgewick Tie Company. Having lost
his first wife Mr. Sedgewick was married in Indiana, Pennsylvania, in 1871,
to Mi.ss Nannie J. Fiock, a native of that place, her parents having eben
pioneers there. Her father purchased land from the government near Indi-
ana in a very early day and eventually became a large landowner, also en-
gaging in the stock business in that locality for many years. The capable
management of his business interests brought him a gratifying prosperity
and both he and his wife spent their remaining days in that locality. By the
second marriage of Mr. Sedgewick there were no children but Mrs. Sedgewick.
reared seven children, all of whom are now married and living in different
parts of the country.

Mr. Sedgewick was a very stanch republican, believing the principles
of the party most conducive to good government, yet he never sought nor de-
sired official preferment as a reward for party fealty. He held membership
with the ^lasonic fraternity and with the Second Presbyterian church, to
which his widow yet belongs. He was a wealthy and w^ell known business
man, respected as much for the integrity and straightforwardness of his busi-
ness methods as well as for the gratifying success he achieved.

Mrs. Sedgewick owns a commodious and fine residence at the southeast
corner of Virginia street and Armour boulevard, which has been the family
home for the past twenty years. She also has two blocks on Armour boulevard
and building lots on Virginia street and the Paseo. Her realty also embraces
several fine residences elsewhere in the city, from Avhich she derives a good
rental. In her home she has a very fine library and beautiful paintings and
other works of art, which indicate a refined and cultured taste. She also has
many interesting relics of pioneer days in Kansas City. On another page of
this work will be found a view of the old Gillis House, one of the first hotels
in the city, and in her home Mrs. Sedgewick has one of the old dining room
tables, also a hat table, a dining room bell and several of the old dining

64 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

room chairs from that hotel. Forty years have come and gone since she
became a resident of Kansas City and throughout this period she has been
prominent in social circles, numbering among hor friends the best residents
of Jackson county.

JUSTIN A. RUNYAN.

By virtue of his position as secretary of the Manufacturers and Merchants
Association, and by reason of a deep, personal interest in the city and its
welfare, Justin A. Runyan has become a prominent and forceful factor in
the development and upbuilding of the city along various lines. While hold-
ing to high ideals, his labors are intensely practical and with keen intuition
he recognizes the possibilities of the means at hand and the opportunities for
successful cooperation of forces in the attainment of desired results.

The life record of Mr. Runyan began in Independence, Missouri, on the
10th of May, 1863. On the 3d of September, following, his father, with the
family left for Columbia, Boone county, Missouri, having been banished from
Jackson county under Ewing's order, No. 11. Justin A. Runyan is one of
twelve children, being the tenth child born to Aaron Ogden and Mary
(Clifford) Runyan. Early in life he displayed a taste for literature and an
aptitude for newspaper work, and to satisfy his desires in that direction he
entered the publishing office of the Missouri Statesman, at Columbia, Mis-
souri, where he became a practical printer and pressman and at the same time
studied journalism under Colonel William F. Switzler, then editor of the
Statesman.

Realizing the value of education and intellectual training, he afterward
attended the Missouri University at Columbia for three years and was thus
better equipped for the duties of the position of associate editor and business
manager of the Missouri Statesman upon his appointment by Colonel Switzler,
who had received appointment from President Cleveland to the position of
chief of the bureau of statistics in the treasury department at Washington,
D. C. Mr. Runyan thus served until December, 1887, when he resigned to
accept an appointment at Washington in connection with the federal con-
gress. While thus engaged he also represented the syndicate of newspapers
as a special correspondent, and like other young men who came to the capital
he took advantage of the opportunity to attend the law department of the
Georgetown University and in course of time was graduated therefrom. In
1891 he was transferred to the war department, where he superintended the
publishing of the "Records of the Rebellion of 1861-65. "•

On the 1st of September, 1897, Mr. Runyan resigned nis position in
the war department and returned to Missouri, and in doing so broke the
axiom ''few die and none resign." His next step was the purchase of the
Sentinel at Clarksville, Pike county, Missouri, which paper he published suc-
cessfullv for some vcars. In July, 1899, ho went to St. I.ouis, where he re-

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 65

sumed his labors in the newspaper field but in February, 1901, came to Kan-
sas City as solicitor for the R. G. Dun mercantile agency. Mr. Runyan thus
continued until July, 1905, when he resigned to accept the secretaryship of
the Manufacturers and Merchants Association. Since that time he has been
closely allied with the development of the manufacturing and commercial in-
terests of Kansas City and has also actively participated in every movement
toward the civic, educational and religious improvement of the entire people.
Always deeply interested in education, he is the champion of every practical
and commendable movement for the advancement and education of voung
people and as secretary of the Jackson County Chapter of the Alumni and
Ex-Students Association he still keeps in touch with the work of the Missouri
State University at Columbia. Another matter of deep interest to Mr. Run-
yan is the development of the waterways and his study of the question has
led to the comprehensive and accurate understanding of the nation's pos-
sibilities in this direction and the value to the country of a developed waterway
system. He was one of the organizers of the Missouri River Valley Improve-
ment Association and has been a delegate to and an active participant in every
deep waterway convention held in the United States since the organization
was affected.

On the 23d of October, 1889, at Clarksville, Pike county, Mi.-s<ouri, was
celebrated the marriage ceremony of Mr. Runyan and Miss Nellie Stuart
Kissinger. They now have one daughter, Lillie Stuart Runyan, who is a
student in the Central high school. Mr. Runyan is well known in Masonic
circles, being past master of Acacia Lodge, No. 18, A. F. & A. M., also a
member of Columbia Chapter, No. 1, R. A. M., and Washington Commandery,
No. 1, K. T., all of Washington, D. C. He likewise affiliates with the Mithras
Lodge of Perfection, No. 1, A. A. S. R. His ancestral history makes possible
his membership with the Sons of the Revolution and he is now serving on
the board of managers of the Jackson county chapter.

For many years he has been an active and effective worker in the church
and in its various activities. He joined the Garfield Memorial church at
Washington, D. C, November 23, 1890, and was baptized the same night
by the Rev. F. D. Powder, who was known as Garfield's pastor. In April,
1891, he and his wife, in association with sixty-five others as charter mem-
bers, organized the Ninth Street Christian church of Washington, Mr. Runyan
being elected one of the elders. He and his wife purchased, catalogued and
conducted the library at the Sunday school of the Ninth Street Christian
church until the 1st of October of the same year, on which day he was elected
superintendent of the Sunday school, serving continuously and acceptably
in that position until he resigned in 1897, to return to Missouri. When he
assumed the duties of superintendent there w^ere eighty-seven scholars in the
Sunday school and at the time he resigned there was an average attendance
of six hundred and ninety-five, with an enrollment of eight hundred and
forty-seven. This Sunday school, for the years 1893, 1894, 1895, 1896 and
up to the time he resigned the superintendency, was the banner Sunday school
of the Christian church brotherhood for the District of Columbia, Maryland
and Delaware.

66 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Mr. Runyan gives the greater credit for the success of the Sunday school
to the secretary, Mr. George W. Pratt, and the strong corps of teachers, of
which Mrs. Runyan was one. On locating in Clarksville, Missouri, he was
at once elected superintendent of the Sunday school of the Christian church
there, and was also elected superintendent of the First Christian church Sunday
school of St. Louis, Missouri, while living in that city. He has been an active
worker in the Young People's Society of Christian Endeavor from its organ-
ization and when he came to Kansas City he and his wife joined the Inde-
pendence Boulevard Christian church and for one year he was president of
the local Young People's Society of Christian Endeavor of that church. He
has never been active in club life, preferring to devote his time aside from
his business duties to his home, to his church and to the enjoyment of the
cordial relation that exists between him and many friends. He is possessed
of untiring energy and is an optimist, who believes that the world is growing
better and is always helping on the work toward this end. It is said of Mr.
Runyan that he is always ready to do something for some one else. As sec-
retary of the Manufacturers and Merchants Association he takes special pride
in his work and is never so happy as when exploiting the good points of Kan-
sas City to the visitor within her gates.

MICHAEL HOFMANN.

In the year 1881 Michael Hofmann became a resident of Kansa.s City
and throughout his remaining days was engaged in the wholesale liquor
business here. A native of Germany, he was born September 29, 1828, and
his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Adam Hofmann, were likewise natives of that
country, where they always resided. The father died, however, Avhen his son
]\Iichael was but six years of age. The boy acquired his education in the
public schools and remained in the fatherland until he had attained his
majority, when he resolved to try his fortune in America, having a brother
who was living in Frankfort, Maine, and who made favorable reports con-
cerning business opportunities in this country and the advantages that
might be enjoyed here. Accordingly he bade adieu to friends and native
coiHUry to take ])assage on a westward bound vessel and reached New York
liai'bor in due course of time. Ere leaving his native land he had learned
the tailor'.s trade and for a brief ])eriod he worked at the trade in the eastern
metropolis. He also visited his brother in Maine and in 1852 he went to
r>i>-!oii. where he embarked in bu.siness on his own account, opening a tailor
sbdp wliich he conducted for five years. In 1857 he came to the west and
settled ill Leavenworth. Kansas. There he b(\<i,an in tlie wliolesale liquor
business, whicii he conchieted for a nutnber of years, thus gaining l)roa(l
experience in a branch of li'ide which claimed his attention after his re-
moval to Kansas City.

It was while living in Leavenworth that Mr. Hofmann was married in
1859 to Miss .Tohanna L. P)aueli. of that city. Slie. too. wa~ l)orn in Gennanv,

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 67

and wa» a daughter of Frederick Baiich, who was a prominent man of that
country and carefully conducted business interests of considerable magnitude
and became quite wealthy. In 1854 he removed with his family to America
and after landing at New York made his way westward to St. Louis, where
he lived retired for a few years. He then went to Herman, Missouri, and
subsequently to Nebraska City, Nebraska, but did not again engage in busi-
ness, for the competence acquired in former years was sufficient to supply
him with all of the comforts and some of the luxuries of life. In his old age
he went to Leavenworth, Kansas, and made his home with Mr. and Mrs.
Hofmann until called to his final rest. Three of his children are yet living,
one daughter being in Michigan and another in Nebraska City.

Following their marriage Mr. Hofmann engaged in the wholesale
liquor business in Leavenworth, Kansas, being connected with the trade
there for about twenty-four years. In 1881, however, he sold out and re-
moved to Kansas City, where he established a wholesale liquor store, his
business being located at No. 319 West Fifth street. He continued in that
line throughout his remaining days and built up an excellent patronage, so
that the volume of his trade brought him a good financial return annually.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hofmann were born eleven children, eight of whom
are now living, namely: William L., who resides in Utah; Louise L., the wife
of Gus Meyer, a resident of Kansas City; Emma, the wife of Dr. William
Brechtline, who resides in Higginsville, Missouri, where, in addition to his
practice he is engaged in the drug business; Josephine, the wife of Charles
C. Peters, who is superintendent of and a partner in the firm of Emery, Bird,
Thayer Dry Goods Company, of Kansas City, and whose sketch is found
elsewhere in this work; Michael, who after his father's death, took charge of
the business, which he continued until January, 1907, and who resides with
his mother; Anna, the wife of Lyman Seaman, a resident of Springfield,
Missouri; Edward, who wedded Bertha Boetcher, and resides in Chicago,
where he is acting as cashier for the Armour Packing Company; and Flor-
ence, who is with her mother. Those deceased are Gustave, Marie and Ger-
trude. The death of the father occurred June 2, 1890. He had many warm
friends among the German-Americans and other citizens here, his social
qualities and kindly nature winning him sincere regard. While in Leaven-
worth he was a member of the school board for several years and the cause
of education found in him a warm friend. He was thoroughly in sympathy
with fraternal organizations and belonged to the Masons, the Knights of
Pythias and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. After coming to
America and studying the political issues and questions of the day he allied
his interests with those of the republican party, which he supported for
some time, but in later years he voted for the candidate whom he regarded
as best qualified for office without regard to party affiliation. He was a
member of the Catholic church, while his widow holds membership with
the Presbyterian church. In community affairs he was deeply interested and
his assistance could always be counted upon to further progressive move-
ments for the public benefit. He wa- also devoted to the welfare of his
family and was ever loyal in his friendships. He died at his old home at No.

68 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

918 Pcii]i street, a palatial residence, which is one of the finest homes of
the city. It contains twenty-six rooms and its architectural beauty renders
it one of the attractive residences of the district in which it is located. It is
still owned by Mrs. Hofmann l)ut she and hor son ;nul daughter now reside
at No. 2221 Troost avenue.

JUDGE AZARIAH BUDD.

Judge Azariah Budd, whose memory will be ever perpetuated in Budd
park, of Kansas City, which was named in his honor, was also well known for
a number of years as a practitioner of law in the higher courts of Missouri,
although after his removal to Kansas City he did not follow his profession be-
cause of the state of his health. He w-as born upon a farm in Westmoreland
county, Pennsylvania, September (5, 1824. His ancestors, coming from Eng-
land to the new world, settled in New Jersey and thence representatives of the
name made their way to various sections of the country.

The grandfather, William Joshua Budd, a resident of Westmoreland
county, Pennsylvania, was at one time the richest man in that section of the
state. He was the builder of the town of Port Royal and was associated in
many ways with the material development and progress of the locality, being a
canal-boat owner, merchant and landowner. He also owned Budd's ferry, at
which place the town of Port Royal was built. It was then a part of West-
moreland county but is now a part of Juniata county. William J, Budd was
married in early manhood to Miss Fitch and continued his residence in Penn-
vania up to the time of his death. He reared a large family, including An-
drew Budd. vvho also became the father of a large family, numbering Judge
Budd of this review. The father carried on general agricultural pursuits in
the Keystone state until after his marriage to Miss Nancy Hasson and the birth
of some of their children. He then removed with his family to Ohio, settling
in Lima, where he continued to engage in farming, entering a section of rich
and productive land. It was situated in the midst of the oil fields of that state,
but he never discovered that it was so valuable because of its oil bearing prop-
erties. Having lost his first wife, he afterward married Mary Moorecraft and
he had by both wives twenty children.

Judge Budd pursued his education in the common schools of Ohio to the
age of fifteen years and as age and strength permitted worked upon the home
farm. When he was eighteen years of age his father gave him his time. His
early educational advantages were supplemented by study in the select school
and throughout his life he remained a student, embracing every opportunity
for intellectual progress and finding therein a genuine delight. He studied
hard while attending the select school in Lima and became imbued with the
desire of obtaining a college education. To this end he engaged in teaching
and carefully saved his money. He then went to Cincinnati, Ohio, and
matriculated in the Miami L)niversit3\ In order to save expenses he rented a
room and propared his own moals, but although ho was most careful of his

*^

■ i^KKr'

AZARIAH BUDD.

THE NEV/ YORK
PUBLIC LIBRARY

ASTOR. LEKOX

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 71

f,xpenditures he found that he could not complete the course owing to lack
of funds and after two years' study in the university he resumed teaching in
order to provide for his support. In Lebanon, Ohio, he was employed to teach
the higher branches and while thus engaged he began preparation for the bar,
reading law for two years in the othce and under the direction of Lauren
Smith. He then engaged in teaching school for two years at Ridgeville, War-
ren county, Ohio, where resided the lady who afterward became his wife, and
who was one of his pupils. After two years there passed, he was married in
1849 to Miss Sarah Ann Cornell, of Ridgeville, and for many years they
traveled life's journey happily together, their mutual love and confidence in-
creasing as time passed by.

Mrs. Budd was born May 17, 1827, belonging to a family of well to do
farming people of Warren county, Ohio. She was reared on a beautiful farm
of one hundred and twenty acres overlooking the town of Ridgeville and sup-
plemented her early education, acquired in the common schools, by study in
the college at Lebanon, Ohio. She was a daughter of George N. Cornell and
a granddaughter of Daniel Cornell, who died in Canada while on a visit to
his children in that country. His wife survived him and died at Ridgeville,
Ohio. The father, George N. Cornell, was a relative of the founder of Cornell
College. He was born in Canada, to which country his people had removed
from the state of New York, the father settling on land which he secured
from the English government. Later, however, he exchanged this property
for land in the state of New York, but found that his title to the latter was
bad and he lost nearly all that he had. On learning of this, he said to his
wife, "Now for the west," and firmly believing that the west held his oppor-
tunity he turned his face toward the setting sun. The trip was made down
the Ohio river on rafts, Indian guides being hired. These rafts w^ere lashed
together, and thus in primitive manner the family made their way into the
western wilderness. That Mr. Cornell was not mistaken in his judgment is
indicated by the fact that he prospered after his removal to Ohio and accum-
ulated much land in Warren county. He married Miss Chloe Hand, who
came of a family of English lineage.

Soon after the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Budd he was admitted to the
bar and opened an office in Lima, Ohio, where he practiced for one year.
On the expiration of that period he removed to Kalida, Putnam county,
Ohio, which was then the county seat, but when Ottawa was chosen as the
county seat he took up his abode in the latter place and was elected prose-
cuting attorney there. He secured a good clientage in Ohio, but attracted by
the west — that great section of country lying beyond the Mississippi river, —
he made his way to Missouri in the fall of 1865, at which time Thomas
Fletcher was governor. In this state he practiced in the higher courts, re-
siding first in Jefferson City, Missouri. At that time, however, prejudice
against northern men had not been eradicated. They were termed carpet-
baggers and there was opposition felt to those who had been Union supporters,

After some time spent at Jefferson City Judge Budd removed to Clinton,
Henry county, Missouri, where he practiced for eight years. While there
he was appointed judge to try those who evaded the United States revenue

72 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

law and thus won the title by which he was uniformly known. In 1879 he
came to Kansas City. Here, owing to heart trouble, he gave up the active
practice of law and turned his attention to other interests. He had entered
a tract of forty acres, now in the eastern part of the city. There Budd park
was laid out and named in his honor. Judge Budd cleared and cultivated
the land and raised stock and in his well d' reeled business affairs met with
gratifying success. In the winter of 1889-90 he traveled for his health in
Texas but did not derive the benefit that he had anticipated and passed away
on his farm in Kansas City in December, 1890. In his earlier days he was
a member of the Presbyterian church and was also identified with the Masonic
fraternity. His political allegiance was given to the democracy up to and
through the Douglas campaign, after which he experienced a change in his
political views and became a republican. He was ever a man fearless in what
he believed to be right and nothing could swerve him from a course which
his conscience and judgment approved. This fidelity to principle won him
the highest esteem and made him a man who enjoyed in the fullest degree
the confidence and trust of his fellow citizens. He stood for high ideals in
citizenship, in his profes.sion and in private life and thus it was that he gained
the unqualified esteem of the people among whom he cast his lot.

Since her husband's death Mrs. Budd has resided in Kansas City and
five acres of valuable land which she inherited she has deeded to the city as
an addition to Budd park. For three years she has made her home at No.
3632 Wyandotte street. Her acquaintance is a wide and favorable one here,
for she shared in the high esteem which w^as uinformly accorded Judge Budd.

ROBERT A. LIVINGSTON, M.D.

Dr. Robert A. Livingston, whose professional skill and ability made his
life one of great usefulness, was a native of Lisbon, New York, born August
9, 1850, and was a representative of a prominent old family of the Empire
state. He was a st)ii of John and Margaret (Ingersoll) Livingston, and an
own cousin of Robert Ingersoll, whose words of eloquence thrilled the hearts
of all who heard him. The parents were both natives of the state of Ne\\
York, as was the paternal grandfather of our subject. Judge Robert Livings-
ton, who in early life engaged in farming there but in his later years lived
retired, enjoying the fruits of his former toil. He held many public offices
in Lisbon and was a prominent man there.

John Livingston owned and cultivated a farm near Lisbon, New York,
carrying on general agricultural pursuits there until 1849, when, attracted
l)y the discovery of gold in California, he started for the far west. He was
taken ill. however, when crossing the isthmus and died ere reaching his
destination. His widow still survives and is now residing with a son at Lis-
bon, New York, at the advanced age of eighty-five years.

Dr. Robert A. Livingston acquired his early education in the public
schools of Lisbon and afterward attended college at Ogdensburg, New York

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 73

When his more specifically literary course was completed he took up the
study of medicine and became a student in Belleville Medical College, at
New York city. He afterward went to Chicago and completed his medical
course in Rush Medical College, becoming thus well equipped for a respons-
ible professional career. Removing to Stillwater, Minnesota, he located for
practice there and for many years was closely identified with its professional
interests. He was an earnest and discriminating student who always kept
in touch with the advancement made in the profession, was ever careful and
accurate in the diagnosis of a case and displayed marked ability in foretelling
the outcome of diseases. He was most conscientious in the discharge of his
professional duties and his labors were attended with a gratifying measure,
of success.

Dr. Livingston was married in Lisbon, New York, to Miss Virginia
S. Wallace, a native of Lisbon, and a daughter of Dr. Reuben and Caroline
(Ainsworth) Wallace. The latter died during the infancy of her daughter,
and Mr. AVallace afterward married again. He, too, was a physician, who
practiced in Lisbon, New York, and later he removed to the west, settling
at Little Sioux, Iowa, where he continued in the active practice of medi-
cine and surgery during the last thirty years of his life. He died there at
the venerable age of eighty-eight years, and his second wife also passed away
there.

Unto Dr. and Mrs. Livingston were born two children, but Zina Bruce
died at the age of fourteen months and John Merrill died when but two
months old. Dr. and Mrs. Livingston continued to make their home in
Stillwater, where he continued in the active practice of his profession until
his death, which occurred September 8, 1875. He held a number of local
offices there, including that of city physician, and was always most loyal to
the trust reposed in him. His political allegiance was given to the repub-
lican party, and he took an active interest in the work that was being done
to secure the adoption of republican principles, which he believed were most
conducive to o-ood g;overnment. Fraternallv he was connected with the
Masons and with the Odd Fellows of Stillwater, and his funeral services
were conducted by the latter organization. He was also a member of the
Episcopal church at Stillwater, and his life was upright and honorable, win-
ning for him the regard and trust of those with whom he was associated.

Following her husband's demise, Mrs. Livingston resided in Stillwater
for twelve years, and then sold her property there, removing to Little Sioux,
Iowa, where she resided with her father until his demise. She and her
half brother, Arthur AYallace, then came to Kansas City in 1901 and both
invested in property there. Mr. Wallace is now doing business as a nur-
seryman and landscape gardener, owning five acres of land at MarlboT-ough,
a suburban division of Kansas City. He is an extensive operator in this
department, and is well qualified to care for the trade. He is also engaged
in the real-estate business, and his intense and well directed enterprise con-
stitute important factors in a prosperous career. He now makes his home
with his sister, Mrs. Livingston. The latter has also invested in property
on East Thirtieth street, also on Campbell street and other public highways

74 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

of this district, and in the purchase and sale of property she receives a good
return upon her investments. In September, 1907, she built a nice resi-
dence at No. 3822 Virginia street, where she and her brother re.side. She
belongs to the Methodist Episcopal church, and is a lady of many good traits
of heart and mind, to whom cordial hospitality is extended in many homes.

GEORGE EDAVARD MUEHLEBACH.

George Edward Muehlebach, well known as a representative of the
brewing interests of Kansas City as the president of the Muehlebach Com-
pany, was born August 10, 1881, a representative of one of the pioneer
families of this county. His father, George Muehlebach, now deceased, was
one of a family of four sons and a daughter, who came to America.

The sons all established homes in Kansas City but the daughter remained
at Lafayette, Indiana. All are now deceased. One of the brothers, Peter Muehle-
bach, conducted a wine garden at Forty-first street and State Line and also
was proprietor of one of the first hotels here and Western Star House. The
other brother, John, was interested in the brewery until 1890, when he sold
out to George Muehlebach. The last named was born in Argau, Switzerland,
April 24, 1833, and is a representative of an old Swiss family. He acquired
his education there and on coming to America in 18o7, settled in Lafayette,
Indiana. Two years Avere there passed and on the expiration of that period
he became a resident of Kansas City. He worked at the harness trade in
what was then the town of Westport and later removed to Quindaro, where he
engaged in business for himself. Not long afterward he and his brother
John, who had accompanied him to America, began freighting between Kan-
sas City, Denver, Salt Lake City, Pueblo, Silver Bow, Helena and Butte with
ox-teams, and were thus engaged for several years prior to tlie period of
railroad transi)ortation.

George Muehlebach next turned his attention to milling interests in
Colorado and thus operated until about 1870. when he again came to Kansas
City and wdth his brother John bought the Heliiireich brewery, with which
he was connected until his death December 22, 1905. Fii 1880 they demol-
ished the old plant and erected the present plant, to whidi repeated additions
have been made as the increasing trade demanded until it is now an extensiye
and well housed enterprise. At the beginning the manufactured product
was only two buiidred V)arrcl< per year and today it is about sixty-five thou-
sand, while sixty men arc employed in the manufacture of their celebrated
Pilsner. Mr. Mixlilcbach dcvotc'd hi.< (Mitirc attention to that luisiness and
this enterprise proved very successful.

George Muehlebach was a member of the Swiss American Society and was
interested in all that pertained to the wiliare of hi.- native land. He wa$
also most loyal to his adopted country and was in full sympathy with its
free in.stitutions. Tie belonged to the Catholic church and was independent
in politics. In 18.S0 he married Margaret M. Be.-senl)acher. a daughter of

GEORGE MUEHLEBACH.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 77

John Bessenbacher, of Kansas City, who was of American birth but of Bavar-
ian lineage. They became parents of three children : George E. ; Sophronia
C, the wife of William Buchholz, first assistant prosecuting attorney of Kan-
sas City and a member of the firm of Kelly, Brewster & Buchholz; and Carl
A., who at the age of twenty years is superintendent of the brewery. The
father left to his family an excellent estate which he had built up after com-
ing to America.

George Edward Muehlebach pursued his education in the public schools
and in a German Catholic school of Kansas City, also attending Spalding's
Business College, from which he was graduated at the age of eighteen years.
He then became connected with his father's business as solicitor and collector
and when he had served in that capacity for two years he acted as superin-
tendent of the brewery and later was associated with the office work. He
thus gained a practical knowledge of the business in all of its departments
and in 1904 became a member of the firm and was chosen secretary and treas-
urer. Upon his father's death he succeeded to the presidency, having taken
over the management of the business the year before. He is now conducting
a well established enterprise which is bringing to the company a gratifying
profit.

Mr. Muehlebach is a member of various fraternal and social organiza-
tions. He belongs to the Elks and the Eagle lodges, to the Swiss-American
Society, to the Elmridge Club, the Manufacturers & Merchants Association
and the Rochester Hunt & Fish Clubs. He takes his annual vacation in
a trip each fall to the Indian Territory for hunting and fishing. His relig-
ious faith is that of the Catholic church. He is interested to a large extent
in Kansas City real estate, his property including his own home at No. 3672
Madison, in the suburb of Roanoke.

WILBUR H. DUNN.

Wilbur H. Dunn, superintendent of the parks of Kansas City, was born
in Baldwin, Kansas, September 8, 1864, a son of Brazilla C. and Elizabeth
(Gill) Dunn, the former a native of Ohio, and the latter of England. In
the schools of Baldwin Wilbur H. Dunn acquired his preliminary education,
which was supplemented by study in the University of Oregon, at Eugene,
that state, where he completed his education. He studied engineering in
the university but before completing the course engaged with the Northern
Pacific Rairoad Company, with which he was connected for two years, fol-
lowing its construction through Montana and Idaho till the main line was
completed in 1881. Three years later, in 1884, he came to Kansas City,
Missouri, and engaged in his profession of civil engineering in connection
with the Santa Fe and other railroads, radiating from Kansas City. He has
also been connected in a professional capacity with the Kansas City Cable
Street Railway construction. On leaving here he went to Atlanta, Georgia,
as engineer in charge of the construction of the Augusta Electric Railway

78 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

and subsequently was engaged on the construction of the electric railways
of Chicago. He gained wide reputation in this connection for ability and skill
and the contracts awarded him were of an important character.

In 1896 Mr. Dunn became associated with the park board of Kansas
City as engineer to take the topography of Swope Park, and on the 20th
of May, 1904, was made superintendent of the city parks which position he
has since filled to the entire satisfaction of the board and the public. He
has been connected with the park system since the actual park improvement
began and has been largely instrumental in bringing the parks to their
preseftt state of development and beauty. He was the fir.-t in charge of all
the engineering for the improvements and later had general supervision of all
the parks, including the constructive work and the direction of the men. ]\Ir.
Dunn has high ideals which he works out along practical lines that have
produced tangible and effective results, making the park system of Kansas
City one of which its residents have every reason to be proud.

On the 31st of May, 188(3, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Dunn and
Miss Nellie Stone, of Basehor, Kansas. They have two daughters, Elta M.
and Norma I. Mr. Dunn is a Master Mason and is also identified with other
fraternal organizations, including the Woodmen and the Royal Arcanum.
In the latter he is a past regent. He is also a member of the American Asso-
ciation of Park Superintendents. He and his wife hold membership in the
Westport Avenue Presbyterian church and are interested in all that pertains
to the material, intellectual and moral progress of the city.

CHARLES 0. PROCTOR.

Charles 0. Proctor, who has been a resident of Kansas City from his
boyhood days and for a mimber of years a representative of extensive farm-
ing interests of the west, is now^ giving his attention largely to the develop-
ment of property interests. He was born in Athens, Tennessee, July 25, 1861.
His father, Charles Alfred Proctor, who became a resident of Kansas City in
1869, was born in Charlestown, Massachussetts, March 15, 1822. His parents
were Jacob and Lucrctia (Tufts) Proctor, the former a tanner, and later a
farmer, while his well directed business affairs eventually made him a capi-
talist. He was descended from old New England ancestry, his forefathers
having come to this covnitry in 1638 and settled at Littleton. ^Massachusetts,
where the old homestead is still in possession of the family. They were of
English lineage and a coat of arms was granted tlu'iii in 1460. Charles A.
I*i-(i<'t(ir hud fdur great-grand uncles in the revolutionary war and extended
mention is made (if the family in historical docnnu'iits of Littleton, Massa-
chusetts and New England.

Charles A. Pi'octor com])lct('d his education as a student in the medical
department of Harvard College at Caml)ridg(\ Massachussetts, with the class
of 1846. He was by nature and tcm])eranient (]uiet and of litei'ary tastes and
tendencies. It was natural therefore that he .-hould enter ujion a jirofessional

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 79

career, and after his graduation from Harvard he engaged in the practice
of medicine at Stowe, Massachussetis. In that calling he met with success
and proved himself ably qualified to cope with the intricate problems that
continually confront the physician, but for some reason he became averse
to the use of medicine, giving up the practice to take up the study of assaying.
In 1852 he went to Ducktown, Tennessee, in the interests of Messrs. Condit
& Thurber, of New^ York city. He made many trips to the south for that
firm and also for Mr. Wetmore, of Newport, Rhode Island, and was in the
south at the time of the outbreak of the Civil war. As a refugee he made
his way through Hood's army and proceeded to the north. Following the
close of hostilities, however, he returned to the south in 1866 as superinten-
dent of the Tennci^see Coal & Railroad Company. In 18'o7 he went to
Marion, Indiana, where he built a large factory for the manufacture of hubs,
spokes and fellies. After conducting it for a time, however, he sold out and
on the 1st of May, 1869, arrived in Kansas City, Missouri.

Mr. Proctor located in that section of the city now known as Westport.
He did not engage actively in business afi'airs but having brought with him
to the west considerable capital, he loaned his money on farm lands mostly
in Kansas. Purchasing twenty acres of land at Westport he there erected a
home and because of an interest .in the work and because of the fact that
indolence and idleness were utterly foreign to his nature he engaged there in
horticultural pursuits, raising fruit largely as pastime.

While living in this locality Mr. Proctor served as a member of the
Westport school board from 1872 until 1876. He was a republican in his
political faith, but his various trips to the south gave him a wider view and
a more liberal judgment of that section of the country than was held by
most men of his time. In 1884 he returned east to New Hampshire and lived
amid the beautiful mountains of that district at Jaffrey until his death, which
occurred on the 29th of July, 1892. On the 19th of December, 1854, Mr.
Proctor had been married at Athens, Tennessee, to Miss Sarah Ann Mastin,
a native of that state. They were the parents of eight children : Alia Anna,
the wife of Ivan M. Marty, a resident of Petaluma, California; Martha Wil-
liams, the wife of Louis K. Scotford, of Chicago, Illinois; Charles Ormand,
who is the immediate subject of this review; Julia Mastin, the wife of Peter
Cook, who makes her home in Rio Vista, California ; John Jacob, who wedded
Eva Rowl and lives in Kansas City; Lucretia Tufts, the wife of Erskin B.
McNear, of San Francisco, California; George Lawrence, who Ls located in
Rio Vista, that state; and Grace Darling, the wife of Robert M. Hall, a resi-
dent of Chicago, Illinois. The wife and mother departed this life in 1882,
while Mr. Proctor survived her for ten years. He is yet remembered by man^
of the early residents of Kansas City and Jackson county, where he was well
known as a capitalist and business man, who possessed many admirable social
qualities and his spirit of progressive citizenship was manifest in many ways.

Charles 0. Proctor in the days of his infancy was carried in his father';<>
arms a distance of three hundred miles to get him out of his native state
and away from the scene of conflict incident to the Civil war. He came to
Kansas City in his boyhood days and was educated in its public schools.

80 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

«

When sixteen years of age he went ont njion the phiins where he herded cat-
tle. In 1890 he purchased six hundred and forty acres of land in Johnson
county, Kansas, where he made his home until a few years ago, his time and
energies being given to the supervision of his agricultural interests. He has
now sold live hundred and sixty acres of his land to the Strang Rairoad line
for two hundred dollars |)er acre and they have made an addition of this to
be known as Overland Park, a suburb of the city. ^Ir. Proctor is now inter-
ested in laying out a snl)url:) and in in)j)roving it and i- thus associated in the
material development of the west. In 1900 he erected hi^ present home at
No. 4343 Jefferson street on land formerly owned by his father and it has
since been his place of residence. He has also built many dwellings in this
vicinity and also sold a tract of land to the Corbin Realty Company, which
has now been improved under the name of Corbin Park.

^Ir. Proctor was married at Westport, October 1, 1888, to Miss Florence
Grul)er, of Marion, Kansas. They have one child, Martha. Mr. Proctor has
long been known here, his connection with the city covering a period of about
forty years, for although he has not resided here continuously the family
have always been interested in property here and Mr. Proctor has made fre-
quent trips to Kansas City while residing elsewhere. Pie has many friends
here who have known him from his bovhood davs and the fact that he eniovs
their warm regard is indicative of an upright, honorable life.

JOHN F. EATON.

John F. Eaton is a leading representative of insurance interests in Kan-
sas Citv, but while he has attained distinction in business circulars bv reason
of his success, he is equally well known in Missouri as a prominent Mason
and as a leader in coimnunity affairs, having been associated with many
movements for the exploitation of Kansas City's advantages and the jyroino-
tiou of its welfare. One of Missouri's native sons, he was born in St. Louis
in 1850. His father, .lolui Eaton, was a native of England and when a
young man came to America, being engaged in a general contracting busi-
ness in St. Louis for some time and afterward in (^uincy, Illinois, where he
died in 1867. His wife, Mary Frances Eaton, died in Kansas City, April
20, 1906, at the advanced age of seventy-seven years.

John F. Eaton is the second in a family of five children but only two are
living, his l)rother, Walter Y. Eaton, being also r. resident of Kansas City.
In rai'ly ])oyhood John V. Eaton accompanied his parents on their removal
to Qnincy. Illinois, and pni-.<ned his edneation in the j)u])lic schools of that
city. He enteri'd hn^ine-- life as a traveling salesman I'oi' a crockery and
glassware house, with which he conliinied for a ye.u". P\ivorable reports
of Kan-a< T'ity and its iios.-^ihi lilies led him to de.>ire lo beeome a I'csident
lii're ;nid acting npim this course which liis judgnuMit sanctioned, in July,
1881. he became identified with its bn-iness interests thi-ongh tlie establish-
ment of a wholesale ar(l retail crockery and gla--ware Im-ine-.- as jnnior ))art-

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 81

ner of the firm of Erwin & Eaton at No. 612 Delaware street. The enterprise
proved a profitable undertaking. After fifteen years in mercantile lines Mr.
Eaton sold his interest in the business and turned his attention to insurance,
purchasing a half interest in the firm of Baird & Company. The firm name
was later changed to Baird, Eaton & Fulton, with offices in the Junction
building. They represent five of the important insurance companies and the
business of the firm is now very extensive. The senior partner died July 14,
1903, and Mr. Eaton then had entire charge, displaying excellent executive
ability in systematizing and controlling the varied interests of the company,
until October, 1903, when he sold out to Edwin Fulton.

Mr. Eaton, moreover, occupies a position of distinction in connection
with many of the popular fraternal and social interests of Kansas City. He
became a charter member of the Commercial Club, has been one of its active
workers and in 1896-97 served as a director. He is now a member of its
state and national legislative comittee. He also belongs to the Country Club
and to the Modern Woodmen of America, while in his Masonic connections
he has become known as one of the honored and prominent representatives
of Mansonry in the state, having served as grand commander of the Grand
Commandery of Knight Templars of Mis.souri. He is also past eminent com-
mander of Oriental Commandery, No. 35, K. T., is a Scottish Rite Mason
and has been honored with the thirty-third degree. He was president of the
Kansas City Karnival Krewe for the three years — 1898, 1899 and 1900, and
instituted and carried through various successful celebrations. He is a mem-
ber of the upper house of the city council at the present time, having been
one of only two democrats elected to that office two years ago. He is also in-
terested in the moral development of the community, having served as ves-
tryman and treasurer of Grace Episcopal churcli, of which he is a commu-
nicant.

In 1883 Mr. Eaton was married to Miss Flora MacMillan, of Blooming-
ton, Illinois, and theirs is an attractive home at No. 3123 Woodland avenue,
erected by Mr. Eaton about ten years ago. His interest in Kansas City is
one of contagious enthusiasm which finds tangible evidence in his practical
and untiring efforts for the city's welfare and upbuilding.

W. E. RYDER.

AV. E. Ryder, vice president and general manager of the Midland As-
bestos Manufacturing Company, was born in Ohio in 1867 and acquired
his education W'hile spending his boyhood days in his native city. Going to
Chicago in early manhood, he became connected with the asbestos manu-
facturing business about fifteen years ago, being associated with different
firms in that city and gaining a broad general knowledge of the business in
its various departments as he worked his way upward from one position to
another. As his promotions brought him a broader outlook and more
thorough understanding of the trade he became ambitious to engage in

82 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

business on his own account and saw the realization of this hope when in
1900 he came to Kansas City and organized the Midhmd Asbestos Manu-
facturing Company, of which he has since been vice president and mana-
ger. His fellow officers in this concern are F. W. Fratt, president; John C.
Miller, secretary; and C. W. Long, treasurer. The company leased a build-
ing at the corner of Third and Highland streets, where they have a floor
space of fifty-two thousand five hundred feet and employ about one hun-
dred people. They manufacture asbestos materials for all building pur-
poses, insulating materials, pipe coverings, boiler coverings, etc. Their out-
put is placed upon the market through agencies and they also employ travel-
ing salesmen, sending their product from one end of the land to the other.

This enterprise is now one of the important productive industries of
the city and Mr. Ryder has devoted his entire time and attention thereto,
his previous practical experience being of essential value to him in the con-
duct of the enterprise, while his executive force and administrative ability
are also strong elements in its success. The plant is equipped with steam
power and all the latest improved machinery and they have installed their
own lighting plant. They also buy lumber and manufacture their
own shipping cases and the factory is entirely modern in every particular.
The business has been carefully systematized, so that there is no waste of
time, labor or materials and yet it has ever been the object of the house to
reach an ideal standard in business, in the personnel of the factory and
offices, in the character of the service rendered and in the quality of the
materials sent out.

Mr. Ryder was married in Defiance, Ohio, in 1894, to Miss Alice D.
D'oitrick. a native of the Buckeye state. They now have three children:
Willard, George and Richard. While a comparitively recent addition to
the business circles of Kansas City, Mr. Ryder is a man who at once makes
his presence felt, not because of any ostentation on his part but because he
possesses the strength of character and the energy that enables him to do
things and do them well. He has preferred to confine his attention to his
business affairs rather than to any active connection with public interests
and yet his influence is always given on the side of progress in municipal or
civic life.

NEHEMIAH HOLMES.

There are in every community a few people who note the trend of
events and the signs of the times indicating what the future has in store
for the locality and who labor to meet the conditions thai will arise; they
profit by their foresight and the city is bciunted by their enterprise. Such
a. man had Kan-^jas City in Xchemiah Holnics. He was born in New York
in January. 1826, a son of Nehcmiah and Clara (D-an) Holmes, whose fam-
ily of eight children numbered three sons and five daughters. He was the
seventh in order of l)irth. His father was for manv vears a merchant of

NEHEMfyVir HOLMES.

PUB

■K

^1^ '^Br'ARY

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 85

New York city but afterward retired to a large farm in Westchester county,
New York.

Nehemiah Holmes acquired a good business education and also took up
engineering work. Leaving school at the age of eighteen years, he afterward
went to Aberdeen, Mississippi, where his brother and a partner, Mr. Kendall,
were conducting a large general mercantile establishment. Mr. Holmes be-
came associated with them and was soon made sole manager, for he dis-
played marked business capacity and enterprise. At the age of twenty years
he was admitted to a partnership in the business and continued in active
connection therewith until 1856, when after a most successful career he
closed out the business and came to Kansas City, where he remained until
his death on the 26th of April. 1873.

Coming to Kansas City with considerable capital, Mr. Holmes invested
largely in real-estate and identified himself with the interests and policy
of the new city, working for its upbuilding along the substantial lines that
are employed in building modern cities, utilizing every opportunity for pro-
moting the substantial growth which finds manifestation in extensive busi-
ness concerns and in those interests which are a matter of civic virtue and
civic pride. He was one of the best known and most highly respected of
the early settlers here and the growth, upbuilding and prosperity of Kansas
City was largely due to his energy and efforts. In 1868 he projected
the Kansas City & Westport horse railroad and also the Jackson county road
to the state line. At the time of his death he was the chief stockholder and
manager of this system of street car lines and has been called the father of
the street railroads of Kansas City. He was at the time of his death and
had been for many years president of the Mechanics'' Bank and was also en-
gaged in the insurance business. Mr. Holmes' death was recognized as a
public calamity, for none who knew aught of the history of the city failed
to feel what an important part he had taken in formulating its policy and
advancing its growth. He was perhaps a man of too decided views to be
popular and yet he enjoyed to the fullest extent the respect, confidence and
good will of those with whom he was associated.

In 1858 occurred the marriage of Nehemiah Holmes and Miss Mary
Rector Flowerree, a daughter of Colonel Daniel and Nancy (Rector) Flow-
erree. Four children were born of this union : Clarence, Walton H., Fred-
ericka and Conway F. He belonged to the Odd Fellows society and in 1858,
two years after his removal from Aberdeen, Mississippi, he was presented by
that lodge with a solid gold jewel of large size, together with regalia. He
had been grand worthy master of the lodge and had done much for its up-
building and development. In politics he was an old-line whig until the dis-
solution of the party and afterward became a democrat. He never forgot a
kindness or a friend and at all times held friendship inviolable, while as a
business man he enjoyed the fullest confidence of the public at large and
was recognized as an important factor in financial circles. While his busi-
ness interests were of extensive proportions and made heavy demands upon
his time and energies, he was nevertheless the promoter of many public enter-
prises for the upbuilding of the city, his interest in its welfar? being shown

86 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

in many tangible ways. His philanthropy, too, was one of his strongly
marked characteristics, and as few do, he lived up to his ideas concerning the
responsibility of riches.

ROBERT J. MASON.

Robert J. Mason was one of those men whose forceful character, clear
vision and keen discernment resulted in a thorough understanding of a
business situation, while his energy enabled him to carry forward to success-
ful completion whatever he undertook. ISIoreover, he was deeply interested
in the welfare of the city and manifested his interest by tangible aid in many
movements for the public good. At the time of his death he was well
known in business circles as a member of the Christie Grain & Stock Com-
pany, having been a resident of Kansas City from 1887.

Mr. Mason was born in Mercer, Pennsylvania, Aug-ust 11, 1856, his
parents being Samuel R. and Jane (Smith) Mason, the latter a sister of the
Rev. Joseph T. Smith, who was one of the most prominent ministers of Bal-
timore, Maryland, in which city his death occurred. Both Mr. and Mrs.
Samuel R. Mason are yet living and each has attained the age of eighty
years. They reside in Mercer, Pennsylvania, where the father has been a
very prominent attorney for many years and is still engaged in active prac-
tice. He is the Nestor of the Mercer bar and the valued and honored president
of the Bar Association there. His history recording a life of activity con-
tinued to the present time should serve as a source of inspiration and encour-
agement to all with whom he comes in contact. He has held some very
prominent offices in the city and county and is honored as one whose life
has at all times been worthy the highest respect and confidence of his fellow-
men.

Robert J. Mason acquired his early education in the public schools of
Mercer, Pennsylvania, after which he took up the study of law in his father's
office, and later at Yale University and Lafayette College, completing his
law studies through his collegiate work. He then went to the west and settled
in Arizona, where for several years he engaged in mining silver, after which
he returned to his old home in Mercer, Pennsylvania, where he was admitted
to the bar and entered upon the practice of law in association with his father.
He was so engaged until 1887, when he removed to Kansas City and here
entered upon the practice of law in connection with Hayden Young, a very
prominent attorney of this city. After a short time, however, Mr. Mason
withdrew from active connection with the bar and" entered upon a partner-
ship with C. C. Christie, his brother-in-law, and with others formed the Christie
Grain & Stock Company, with offices at No. 707-714 Postal Telegraph build-
ing, this being one of the largest grain and stock firms of Kansas City and Mr.
Christie still remains as its president. Mr. Mason continued in business
throughout hi.- roiiiiuning days nnd contributed to the rapid growth, devel-

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY . 87

opment and financial success which attended the enterprise. He was also
engaged in the real-estate business.

In 1885 Mr. Mason was married in Mercer, Pennsylvania, to Miss
Josephine L. Hoge, a native of New York, and a daughter of David and
Lucy (Griffin) Hoge. The paternal grandfather, who also bore the name
of David Hoge, was one of the pioneers and leading landowners and a rep-
resentative of a prominent old family of Ohio. Her father resided in Ohio
for many years and during an early epoch in the history of Iowa settled
in Davenport. He controlled a line of steamboats, operating on the Missis-
sippi river, throughout his remaining chn's and both he and his wife spent
the residue of their lives in Davenport. Two of his brothers were prominent
and well known men : Judge Joseph P. Hoge, who died while serving on the
supreme bench of California; and William Hoge, who was president of the
Wabash Railroad Company at the time of his death. The Hoge family is
well known throughout the United States and has been especially prominent
in the east.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Mason was born one son, Robert Hoge Mason, who
is r&siding in Kansas City with his mother. In the early part of 1901 ]\Ir.
Mason became ill and returned to Arizona for his health. He died tliere sud-
denly on the 16th of May, 1901. He was always much interested in the
upbuilding and im^jrovement of Kansas City, but was never an ofhce seeker
although a stanch republican in politics. He was a good story teller and
possessing a kindly, affable manner, he made many friends. Both he and
his wife were members of the Second Presbyterian church and loyal to
its teachings and its principles. His sterling characteristics were ever such
as to win for Mr. Mason the confidence and good will of those with whom
he came in contact, while his business methods placed him among the sub-
stantial residents of Kansas City. Mrs. Mason and her son now reside with
her brother, Mr. Christie, in a beautiful residence at the northeast corner
of Forty-seventh street and Rock Hill road, and in leading social circles she
is well known.

GEORGE E. W^OLLASTON.

George E. Wollaston, who was a w^ell known contractor and builder of
Kansas City, where many evidences of his skill and handiwork are seen in
substantial structures here, became a resident of the city in 1883. He w^as a
native of Stanton, Delaware, born November 10, 1842. The Wollaston family
was originally of Welsh lineage and the first representatives of the family in
America came on the Mayflower, settling in Delaware, where they owned a
large farm near Wilmington. The eldest brother of our subject still resides
at the ancestral home and one of the principal streets of Wilmington has been
named in honor of the family. The grandfather was a prominent merchant
and large slave owner in Delaware in early days and in later life retired,- his
capital enabling him to enjoy the comforts and luxuries of life. Joseph and

88 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Mary Wollaston, parents of George E. Wollaston, were both natives of Dela-
ware where the father engaged in farming and afterward lived retired until
his death, both he and his wife passing away in the state of their nativity.

George E. Wollaston attended the public schools of Stanton and of Wil-
mington, Delaware, acquiring a good education, while in his youth he also
assisted his father in the operation of the home farm. Starting out in business
life on his own account he purchased a farm between Stanton and Wilmington,
Delaware, and there engaged in general agricultural pursuits until he came
to the west. In the meantime, however, he had responded to the country's
call for troops, following the outbreak of hositilties between the north and the
south, enlisting as a member of Company E, Fifth Delaware Infantry. He
served throughout the war and participated in many battles of importance
but was never injured. Much of the time at the front he suffered from ear
and throat troubles and in 1865 he was honorably discharged, after which he
returned to his home in Delaware with a most creditable military record.

Mr. Wollaston continued his agricultural pursuits in his native state until
his removal to Iowa, where he purchased a tract of land near Sioux City.
There he again engaged in farming and raising cattle and was a great lover of
fine cattle, always keeping very high grade stock. He continued upon his
Iowa farm until 1883, when he came to Kansas City, where his remaining
days were passed. He had already become acquainted to some extent with the
contract business in his younger years and upon his arrival in Kansas City,
where much building was going on, he at once turned his attention to con-
tracting and building and soon secured an extensive patronage, necessitating
the employment of a large number of men. He was also interested in partner-
ship with Mr. Stark in what is known as the old Stark farm near Kansas City
but the greater part of his time and attention was given to his building opera-
tions until he suffered a stroke of paralysis and was unable to engage in busi-
ness longer. He was thoroughly reliable and trustworthy, faithfully executing
his part of a contract to the very letter and he had many friends here, es-
pecially among the real-estate men.

After coming to Kansas City Mr. Wollaston was married to Mrs. Ellen
A. Drennon, a native of Cincinnati, Ohio, and a daughter of James W. and
Mary (Kahaler) Sheridan, the latter a native of Ireland, while Mr. Sheridan
was born in Springfield, MavSsachusetts, and was an own cousin of General
Phil Sheridan. He followed merchandising and also carried on farming near
Cincinnati, Ohio, in early life, while during his later years he lived retired in
the city, both he and his wife spending their last days in Cincinnati. Mrs.
Wollaston was the widow of Jamas W. Drennon, a native of Decatur, Illinois,
who engaged in general merchandising in Memphis, Tennessee, and afterward
in Des Moines, Iowa, for many years. He died in Corydon, Iowa, November
4, 1895. There were three children by that marriage but Darwin E. and Eva
both died in infancy. The eldest, Alice, became the wife of L. Hart Robinson,
who is engaged in the theater business in Chicago and Mrs. Robinson spends
much of her time in Kansas City with her mother Mrs. Wollaston.

The death of Mr. Wollaston occurred February 24, 1907. It was the
occasion of doop regret to many who know him and had loarnod to respect him

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 89

because of his activity and reliability in business, his progressiveness in citizen-
shi}) and his faithfulness in friendship. He was a stanch republican in pol-
itics, taking an active interest in the growth and success of the party, yet never
seeking nor desiring office. For many years he was an interested, active and
valued member of the Grand Army post and also held membership relations
with the Modern Woodmen of Kansas City. His life was at all times in har-
mony with that of an honorable and honored ancestry and his memory is yet
cherished by many who knew him. Mrs. Wollaston owns a residence at No.
4405 Main street, where she is now living.

JAMES H. DAYTON.

One after another men rise from obscurity to prominence in the busi-
ness world, thus giving demonstration of their power for executive man-
agement or for industrial skill. While all this is laudable and worth while^
it is not, however, the thing which wins for the indivdual a lasting place in
the memory of his associates. Mr. Dayton possessed in large measure those
traits of character which endeared him to his fellowmen, and caused his
memory to be sacredly cherished by those with whom he was associated. He
was born in Hampshire county, Virginia, in 1836. His father, Roland S.
Dayton, was also a native of the Old Dominion, and there owned an exten-
sive plantation and many slaves. His landed possessions embraced several
hundred acres along the Potomac river, and his place was one of the most
highly improved properties bordering that classic stream. His wife was
Nancy Dawson and to them were born nine children, of whom James H.
Dayton was the eldest.

Reared in the county of his nativity, James II. Dayton acquired his
education in Virginia and was identified with his father's plantation until
after the outbreak of the Civil war, when he enlisted as a member of the
Fourth Virginia Infantry and served throughout the period of hostilities.
He raised a company for active duty and was later promoted to the rank
of colonel. He was one of the company that stormed Vicksburg on the
31st of May, and was wounded before the city. He was also with Sherman
on the celebrated march to the sea, and participated in the military move-
ments in the Shenandoah valley. Although reared in the south and loving
that section of the country with the strength of an ardent nature in its
attachment to the place of nativity, he nevertheless felt that the south was
wrong in its attempt to destroy the powers of the Federal government, and
in this, as in every relation of life, he stood manfully by his principles.

When the war was over Mr. Dayton made his way to the west, pro-
ceeding up the river by boat to St. Joseph, Missouri, where he remained
until 1878. He was recognized as a prominent and influential citizen there,
and left the impress of his individuality upon municipal affairs by his serv-
ice as a member of the city council through a long period. The year 1878
witnessed his arrival in Kansas City, where he engaged in business with the

90 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

firm of Haiiiia & Company. Subsequently he Ijecame a member of the firm
of Grimes, Woods, Le Force & Company, in which business he was active
as buyer for the house until his demise in 1888. He was recognized as a
man of business ability, and occupied a position of responsibility, enjoying
to the full extent the confidence of those whom he represented.

Mr. Dayton was married in Virginia, in 1859, to Miss ]\Iary E. Dunn,
a daughter of ]\Iichael Dunn, of the Old Dominion, who was engaged in
merchandising in West Virginia for many years. He married Lucinda
Cecil, a descendant of Lord Cecil, of Baltimore, and his death occurred in
March, 1907, at the venerable age of ninety-three years. Unto ]\lr. and Mrs.
Dayton were born two children. Mary Virginia became Mrs. T. F. Moore
and (lied fourteen years ago, leaving a daughter, Helen M., who is the wife
of Thomas Bright. They have one son, Thomas Moore Bright, and
it is with this family that Mrs. Dayton now makes her home. One other
daughter, Mrs. Addie Foster McGuire, has also passed away.

Mr. Dayton gave his political allegiance to the republican party, and
was a stalwart advocate of its principles. In his fraternal relations he was
a Mason, and in his life exemplified the beneficent spirit of the craft. He
was deeply interested in all that pertained to the welfare of his city or pro-
moted the welfare of his fellowmen, yet his interests centered in his fam-
ily, and he found his greatest happiness with his wife and daughters at his
own fireside. His friends ever found him faithful and loyal, yet his best
traits of character were reserved for the home, where he was known as a
devoted, considerate and loving husband and father, always watchful for the
interests of those near and dear to him and counting no personal effort or
sacrifice on his part too great if it would advance their joy or comfort.

JOHN PUNTON, M. D.

Dr. John I'uiitoii. a distinguishtd neurologist of Kansas City, was born
ill LfMidoii. England, July 12. IS")"), a son of William and I'mily ((iuni-
brall) i'untnn. Tli.< ])aternal grandfather, William Tunton, was a barrister
of London, who died in the prime of life, while his widow afterward came
to the United States in company with her eldest son, John, for whom Dr.
Punton was named. This son engaged in the ship business and cai'ed for
his mother until her demise. Another .-on of the family. William Pnnton.
fallier of Dr. Punton, was an \ipholsterer and died at tlu' age of si.\t.\-three
years. He married Emily (lumbrall, a daughter of Tliomas Grund:)all, a
farmer of south England, wliere he and ]\\< wife passed away at an ad-
vanced age. T^nto William and I'^mily Punton wei'e born eight children,
of wliom Mliza and honi.-a came to America, were married hei'e, the former
dying at the age of thirty years; and the latter still living in Nebraska.
William, the eldest son. ha- been ]ii'ineipal of the schools of Heigate near
London for thiiiv vears.

DR. JOHN PUNTON.

THE !-^ •' "'JRK
PUBLIC '.IBRARY

ASTOR. LENOX
TILDCN 1' -i f TlONfS

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 93

Marianne and Minnie are married and living in London. Julia is the
wife of Professor Smith, principal of a large school at Tunbridge Wells,
England. Alfred, the youngest son, came to America when twelve years
of age and is now a practicing dentist at Mount Pleasant, Iowa.

Dr. Punton is indebted to the common schools of England for the early
educational privileges he enjoyed and at the age of sixteen years he became
companion to a wealthy gentleman, with whom he traveled through Eu-
rope for three years, gaining that knowledge, experience and culture which
only travel can bring. Becoming imbued with the desire to make his home
in America, he crossed the Atlantic to the new world in 1874 and soon after-
ward made his way to Jacksonville, Illinois, where he secured a position
a.s nurse at the Central Hospital for Insane. While thus engaged he took
up the study of pharmacy and was advanced to the position of druggist. In
1878-9 he pursued a course of medical lectures in the medical department
of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor and on the expiration of nine
months in that school returned to his old position as druggist in connection
with the Central Hospital for Insane at Jacksonville, Illinois. There he re-
mained for three years, continuing his medical studies under the direction
of the hospital faculty and through his labors accumulating means sufficient
to enable him to follow a special course of study which he had mapped
out for himself. In 1882 he entered the Miami Medical College at Cin-
cinnati, Ohio, and was graduated the following year.

Thus qualified for practice, Dr. Punton located at Lawrence, Kansas,
and was soon afterward appointed to the position of city physician. After
eighteen months the president of the state board of charities of Kansas of-
fered him the superintendency of one of the new insane asylum buildings
then being erected at Topeka, involving the care of three hundred patients.
With laudable ambition for advancement, he embraced the broader oppor-
tunity thus offered, there continuing until 1888, when he pursued a special
course of study under Professor Hay in the Northwestern Medical College
of Chicago. He then located for practice in Kansas City, where he still
resides, and in the interim he has attained high rank as a neurologist. In
1892 he spent a year in Europe, attending prominent hospitals to observe
the treatment of nervous diseases by eminent authorities on that subject in
the old world. He has also pursued special courses of study in the New York
Post Graduate School and the Polyclinic School of Medicine, graduating in
both of these. In 1895 he again visited Europe for further investigation,
study and research. He has continually advanced in his chosen profession
until he has gained a position of distinction accorded by the medical fra-
ternity as well as the public at large. He was one of the founders and has
been president of the Kansas City Academy of Medicine and the vice presi-
dent of the Missouri State Medical Association. He holds membership with
the American Neurological Association, the American Psychological Asso-
ciation, the American Medical Association, the Jackson County and many
other medical associations. He is a trustee and also the secretary and pro-
fessor of nervous and mental diseases in the University Medical College,
clinical neurologist to the City Hospital and to various other hospitals of

94 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

the city, besides the Fri.-^en Raih-oad System and the Southerii Kansas. He
is a member of the board of directors of the P'edcrated Charities and editor
of the Kansas City Medical Index Lancet. In 1890 he established a private
sanitarium for the treatment of nervous and mental diseases, which is now
located at Thirtieth street and Lydia avenue. With broad knowledge of
the general principles of medicine and surgery, he ha^ in recent years con-
centrated his energies upon the treatment of nervous and mental disorders,
continual!}' advancing in skill and proficiency until he is recogized as one
of the foremost neurologists of the day.

On the ITtli of July. 1884, at Jacksonville. Illinois, Dr. Punton was
married to Miss Frances Evelyn Spruill. a daughter of the Rev. W. F. T.
Spniill, then pastor of the Methodist church of that city. Mrs. Punton was
born in Paris, Kentucky, and is a graduate of the literary and fine art de-
partments of the Illinois Female College at Jacksonville. Of the five chil-
dren born to the Doctor and his wife four are living: Frank Gibson, John
Morse, William Bruce and Charles Wesley.

Dr. and Mrs. Punton are connected with the Grand Avenue Methodist
Episcopal church, of which he is an official member and trustee. He was
reared in the faith of the Church of England but on coming to the new
world became identified with the Methodist denomination. In Masonry he
has attained the thirty-second degree of the Scottish Rite and is a Noble
of the Mystic Shrine. He is a self-made man and in a review of his history
it is a noticeable fact that he began life with a definite purpose in view,
worked honestly, faithfully and with a. will for its accomplishment, and
now enjoys a reputation that is by no means limited to the boundaries of
Missouri. A man of progressive ideas, fine attainments, high minded, who
has made the most of his opportunities in life. Dr. Punton has risen to a
foremost place among the representatives of the medical fraternity of the
nation.

GEORGE PENCE SNYDER.

George Pence Snyder, vice president and secretary of the Urie-Snyder
Iron Works Company, wa.- born at Columbus, Indiana, July 22, 1861. His
father, John Snyder, was a native of Virginia but spent the greater part of
his life in Louisville, Kentucky, where he was engaged in the wholesale
grocery business until his death in 1875. Llis wife, who in her maidenhood
was Sarah Pence, was a native of Columbus, Indiana, and is living in Inde-
pendence, Mi.^souri, at the age of eighty years.

The schools of Louisville })rovided Mr. Snyder with the educational
privileges that cjualified him foi- life's practical and responsible duties. He
pursued his studies to the age of eighteen years and then came to Kansas
City, where he entered upon his business career in tli(^ em))loy of Perrin &
Snyder, wholesale dealers in fancy groceries, as a traveling salesman. After
representing that house ujion the road for three years he traveled for Eby
Dowden & Company, wliolesale groceries for four years, after which he

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 95

joined his older brother, the late R. M. Snyder, in the mortgage and loan
business, which they conducted for about seven years. In the meantime
they organized the Mechanics Bank, of Kansas City, of which they were
proprietors, George P. Snyder acting as cashier of the institution, which
they conducted successfully for ten years, when they organized the City
National Bank and transferred the deposits of the Mechanics Bank to the
City National, discontinuing the former. Of the new bank R. M. Snyder
was president; G. P. Snyder, cashier; and J. G. Strain, vice president.

Three years later, in 1882, Mr. Snyder and his brother sold their inter-
est in the bank. A year previous the Urie Boiler & Machine Company had
been organized, Mr. Snyder being one of the members of it. Upon severing
his connection with the bank he became an active member of the new con-
cern, assuming the management of the office and the finances of the business,
to which he has since given his entire attention. In 1905 he increased
his stock to a half interest and the name was changed to the Urie-Snyder
Iron Works Company. At the time he assumed the financial management
of the business in 1902 the enterprise consisted of a small boiler and
machine shop on West Fifth street, worth about twenty thousand dollars.
In five years the business has grown to such an extent that they now occupy
a large j)lant covering an entire block on the Kansas City belt line tracks
at Sheffield. The new plant was built by them and opened in August, 1905.
Here they employ about sixty men. They make a specialty of the manu-
facture of a patent vertical boiler which is built without flues, but in addi-
tion they also do all kinds of plate and sheet iron work, make tanks of every
description, boilers to an}' specifications, smokestacks, breechings, dredges
for placer mining, and a general line of contractors' tools and supplies. The
growth of their business has been steady and has come without any special
solicitation, being a tribute to the merit of their output. Mr. Snyder is also
interested in oil and gas properties in Oklahoma and the Indian Territory
and has invested to some extent in Kansas City real estate.

On the 11th of March, 1889, Mr. Snyder was married to Miss Nellie
Bassett, a daughter of Captain Leslie Bassett, of Fairfield, Iowa, the wed-
ding being celebrated in Olathe, Kansas, where Mrs. Snyder was a teacher
of articulation in the deaf and dumb school. She is well known in musical
circles in Kansas City, for she possesses an unusually fine lyric soprano
voice and for many years sung in the leading churches of this city and of
Independence, Missouri, but with the death of their son she practically re-
tired from society. Their son was Lawrence Bryant Snyder, who w^as killed
in a street car accident February 28, 1905, at the age of fifteen years, while
a student in the Central high school. R. M. Snyder, the brother of George
P. Snyder, and for many years his business associate, was killed in an auto-
mobile accident two years ago. He was considered one of the greatest
financiers of this part of the country and one of the best known and most
highly esteemed business men and citizens of Kansas City. The family
residence of Mr. and Mrs. Snyder is No. 3516 Michigan avenue.

Mr. Snyder usually advocates the principles of democracy but is not a
supporter of Bryan, and his last presidential votes were cast for McKinley

96 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

and Roosevelt. He is a member of the First Christian church and has been
a generous supporter of church and charitable interests, his benevolence,
however, being entirely without ostentation. He is a great lover of fishing
and twice each year makes a trip to northern Wisconsin for a few weeks'
rest and recreation, spending the first two weeks in June and the month of
August in this way, his wife always accompanying him on the latter trip.
On one of these trips two years ago he caught a great muskel lunge weigh-
ing twenty-four pounds, which he had mounted in Chicago and which is
now on display at the Schmeltzer Arms Company of this city. He is a
man of frank, genial nature, without ostentation or display, devoted to his
business, his home and his friends.

ANDREW J. BAKER.

Andrew J. Baker, a Kansas City capitalist, was born in Saratoga, New
York, October 1, 1836, and his life record is an exemplification of the state-
ment of a well known financier, who said: ''Success is a combination of the
opportunity and the man — but first the man." Throughout his entire busi-
ness life, Andrew J. Baker, actuated by a spirit of determination and ambi-
tion has not only utilized the opportunities that have presented but has
sought out others and as the years have passed has advanced far on the road
to prosperity — a road which is open to all.

]\Ir. Baker was a son of Titus and Jerusha (Flagler) Baker, both of
whom were natives of the state of New York. The father was one of a
large family who settled in the Empire state at an early day. Born and
reared in the east, he afterward removed to Indiana, where he followed
the occupation of farming and spent his last years.

In 1854 Andrew J. Baker began railroading on the Ohio & Missis-
sippi Railroad, now the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, running from Seymour,
Indiana, to Cincinnati, Ohio, for fifteen years. In 1869 he became a resi-
dent of Kansas City, at thnt time accepting a position as conductor on the
Missouri Pacific Railroad, his run being from this point to St. Louis. He
continued in that position for seven years and afterward went upon the
farm now owned by the Armour estate, seven miles south of the city. He
purchased the place, comprising two hundred and seven acres, south of the
city on the Wornall road, made it his place of residence for four years and
during that time erected buildings and fences and otherwise improved the
property prior to selling it to Samuel Wornall. He afterward purchased a
place near the Major Warner home and built a fine residence there, which
he occupied for two years. On the expiration of (hat period he again sold
out and purchased thirty-six acres at the end of the Roanoka car line,
known as the Mellier place. Upon that tract he built a residence, occupied it
for some time, and then sold out. It has since been platted and sold for
building purposes and now the cut ire tract is covered witli residences.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 97

Mr. Baker next purchased property in Hyde Park, built a home there
at a cost of twenty thousand dollars and occupied it until after the death of
his wife on the 2d of January, 1890, selling it the following year. He^ went
to New York with the purpose of educating his children, putting his
daughter in a convent there and his sons in St. John'.s College. He con-
tiiuied in the east for six years, after which he went to Paris, where he
spent two years, that his daughter might enjoy the educational advantages
offered in that cit}', and during the periods of vacation they traveled
through Switzerland and to other places on the continent. Mr. Baker has
crossed the water altogether eighteen times and is almost as much at home
on European soil as in his native land.

In 1901 he returned to Kansas City and erected the Netherlands, a
modern apartment building, three stories in height and containing apart-
ments of six rooms each. The lot is two hundred and forty-six by one hun-
dred and forty-two feet. In 1905 he met a demand of the modern city,
erecting the Engadine apartments, which he named after a favorite resort
in Switzerland, and which consists of eleven suites of two rooms each with
bath. He also has other property interests here and from his realty inter-
ests derives a gratifying annual income.

In 1860 Mr. Baker was married, in Seymour, Indiana, to Miss Eliza
Durham, of that state, and they had five children, but Jessie, the eldest, and
Jack, the youngest, are now deceased. The two living sons are Edwin and
Arthur, the former of St. Louis, managing a hotel, and the latter of New
York city. The daughter. Bertha, is the wife of Prank A. Barr, connected
with Illinois Central Railroad, living in Chicago.

INIr. Baker's career is notably that of a self-made man who owes his ad-
vancement not to any fortunate combination of circumstances but to the
fact that he has recognized and known how to improve opportunities, and
thus he has made steady advancement in the business world until, long
since leaving the ranks of the many, he stands today among the successful
few.

EDWARD F. TOBENER.

Edward F. Tobener is now practically living retired after years of active
connection with the real-estate and building interests in Kansas City. He
was born in the old Tobener block, at the corner of Fifteenth street and
Grand avenue, on the 2d of March, 1869, and is a son of Henry Tobener,
who was a leading and influential citizen at an early day and who is men-
tioned on another page of this volume. When he had reached the usual age
the boy was sent to school, pursuing his studies in the Humboldt and
Morse schools, while later he attended Spalding's Business College. Early
in his career he engaged with his father in the conduct of a livery stable
and also collected rents and looked after the real-estate interests of his
father for a number of years. As Henry Tobener prospered in his under-
takings he invested more and more largely in property and thus his realty

98 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

interests made heavier demands npon the time and attention of Edward F.
Tobener as the years passed by. In connection with his fathor he did con-
siderable building and thus figured in the business circles of the city as a
prominent, enterprising factor. He is, however, now living retired, save that
he devotes some time to the raising of fine pigeons. He has imported a
great many from Germany of the most improved varieties and finds this
work most congenial and interesting.

Mr. Tobener was married in Kansas Citv in 1896 to Miss ]\Iarv Mueller,
who was born in Belleville, Illinois, a daughter of John Mueller, of that
city, and they now have one son, Henry. Mr. Tobener erected a fine resi-
dence at No. 1412 Bales street and it has been his home since its completion
in 1904. He has always been a leader in the ranks of the democratic ]iarty
and believes that in its principles lies the solution of popular government.
His entire life having here been passed, the city and its welfare are dear to his
heart and he gives substantial assistance to many movements which are of
value in the work of public improvement. His life is exemplary in many
respects and his activity and keen discernment in business have constituted
the salient features in a prosperous career that now^ enables him to live re-
tired, deriving a substantial income from his invested interests.

COLONEL GEORGE PEERY GROSS.

Colonel George Peery Gross, a Confederate veteran of the Civil war, a
Spanish war veteran, a member of the National Guard and connected through
ancestry with the War for Independence, being now president of the Sons
of the American Revolution, is a citizen in whom' patriotism has always been
a salient characteristic. He was born at Van Buren, Arkansas, November 21,
1847. His father, George Gross, was a native of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, and
a manufacturer of leather. He served in the Confederate army in the com-
missary department, holding a staff" position. The paternal grandfather, Jacob
S. Gro.-;s, was a lieutenant in a Pciiii.-ylvania regiment during the war of
1812, while tlic great-grandfather, John Gross, was a captain of the Third
Pennsylvania Regiment in the Revolutidiiary war. Michael Gro.«>. an uncle
of our .-ubjcct, was also a .soldier, serving with General AValker at Nicai-agua
in the filibustering expedition. All of the above \vere officers and the military
record of the family is one of which its members have reason to be proud.
The mother of Colonel Gros.s, of this review, was Lockcy Pet-ry. a native of
Tazewell, Virginia, who was married, however, in Washington county, Mis-
souri, to George Gross. His death occurred in Kansas City. The mother also
passed away there and both Avere laid to rest in a cemetery at Van Buren.
Arkansas.

Colonel Gross, of this review, accpiircd a limited educatiini in the public
schools of Van Buren. He was but fourteen and a half years of age when
he joined the Confederate army, serving for three and a half years in defense
of the .southern cause. He was with Major Buck Brown's Battalion of Tnde-

COL. GEORGE P. GEOSS.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 101

pendent Rangers and later was transferred to ]\Iajor General James F. Fagan's
escort company. Subsequently he served with the Missouri troops in a cam-
paign against General Banks' expedition up the Red river, and he also saw
service against General Steele's advance out of Little Rock to Shreveport,
Louisiana. He participated in the battles at Mansfield, Pleasant Hill,
Louisiana, and Jenkins Ferry, Arkansas, and in several engagements in the
Indian Territory. At the close of the war he surrendered at Little Rock and
took the oath of allegiance to support the constitution of the United States,
being at that time eighteen years of age. When the war was over Colonel
Gross engaged in merchandising at Van Buren, Arkansas, becoming connected
with a store there in 1866. He continued to reside at Van Buren until 1874,
which year witnessed his arrival in Kansas City. Here he entered the em-
ploy of the Duncan-Wyeth Hardware Company, which was later succeeded
by the Hall & Willis Hardware Company. He traveled all over the west sell-
ing goods for tho.'^e houses until 1887, when he accepted a similar position
with the Kansas City Hardware Company, continuing with that concern for
a year. He then resigned to engage in business on his own account, becom-
ing manufacturers' agent for several eastern manufacturing companies, which
he represented in that capacity until 1898.

In the meantime Colonel Gross had gained some military experience,
for on the 26th of May, 1891, he was appointed by Governor W. J. Stone
as quartermaster of the Third Regiment of the Missouri National Guard. On
the 22d of December, 1893, he resigned and Avas elected first lieutenant of
Battery B, Missouri National Guard, being commissioned as such by Governor
Stone. On the 31st of March, 1894, he was again appointed and commis-
sioned by Governor Stone quartermaster of the Third Regiment, and on the
10th of April, 1895, he was elected lieutenant colonel of the Third Regiment
followed by election to the colonelcy on the 24th of October of the same year.
At the breaking out of the Spanish-American war he was appointed and
commissioned colonel of the Third Missouri Regiment of the United States
Volunteer Infantry, the commission bearing date April 27, 1898. His com-
mand was attached to the Second Army Corps at Camp Alger and he marched
with his regiment and Second Division of the Second Army Corps to Thor-
oughfare Gap, Virginia, and thence was sent to Camp Mead, Pennsylvania,
to join the army corps. He saw seven months' service and when the country
no longer needed the militant aid of her loyal citizens he returned to his
home.

Colonel Gross then engaged in the business of selling mines and mineral
and timber lands. He is interested in a number of mining properties and at
the present time (1908) he is president of the Manhattan Gold Crest Mining
Company of Manhattan, Nevada. He is also secretary and treasurer of the
Logan Copper Company of Arizona, which properties are in the course of
development, and in their ownership he is associated with several prominent
Kansas City capitalists. His oflRce is at No. 1008 Commerce building. He
has made a close study of the mining conditions, interests and possibilities of
the west and has good reason to believe that his investments have been placed
in valuable mining properties. He owns valuable zinc mining land in

102 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

northern Arkansas and he is al<o sole owner and manufacturer of a l)uruer
for fuel oil.

Colonel Gross was married to Miss Martha Vincil at St. Louis, Missouri,
a daughter of Rev. John D. Vincil, a minister of the Methodist Episcopal
church, South, who is well known in his denomination and was for twenty-
one years secretary of the Masonic Grand Lodge of Missouri, which position
he held at the time of his death. Colonel and Mrs. Gross have never had any
children of their own but have reared a nephew, Harry ^Miller, who is a
young man well and favorably known in Kansas City. During the Spanish-
American war he served as a lieutenant of one of the companies in his uncle's
regiment. Colonel Gross and his wife are well known socially in the city.
Mrs. Gross is the president of the Southwest Missouri board of home missions
and president of the board of city missions ; and is also president of the United
Daughters of the Confederacy. In his political views Colonel Gross has always
been a stalwart democrat and upon the party ticket he was placed in nomina-
tion for the office of county collector in 1900. Although defeated, his op-
ponent won the election by a very small majority, Colonel Gross polling a
large vote. He is now president of the local camp of the Sons of the Amer-
ican Revolution and was the first commander of General John C. Bates Camp,
No. 7, of the United Spanish War Veterans, also brigadier general command-
ing the Western Brigade of the Missouri Division of the United (Confederate
Veterans. He is a man of fine presence and soldierly bearing, his appearance
giving evidence of his military experience. Throughout the greater part of
his life he has been connected with some military organization and he greatly
enjoys the association with his comrades of the Civil and Spanish-American
wars and of the National Guard, meeting them as he does at various camp-
fires. Fraternally Colonel Gross is a Mason and an Elk and he belongs to
the Methodist Episcopal church. South.

In 1898 he made [ipplication to the United States government for the
position of colonel in a United States Volunteer Regiment for the purpose of
service in the Philippines. These positions, however, are given to regular
officers, an established rule of the war department, and Mr. Gross was offered
the appointment as major, Avhich he declined. The application was accom-
panied by the following endor.^ements, which show in what high esteem ho

is held:

„ ,, ,, ., , Gallatin, Missouri, March 22, 1899.

To the President : —

Geo. P. Gross, Esq.. late Colonel of the Third Mo. Vols, in the recent
war with Spain, desires an a{)[)ointment as Colonel under the army reorganiza-
tion act. Col. Gross i.-^ an accomplished gentleman, a splendid soldier and I
am sure will acquit himself with credit in the [)osition he seeks. He saw
four years of active service in the war of 'Gl-TrS and is therefore peculiarly
well fitted for the comniand of a regiment. His ap))ointment I am sure would
be very agreeable to the citizens of Missouri, and f sincerely hope you may
see your way clcai' to ninkc if. With best wishes.

Very tiuily y(»urs,

Alex. ^r. Doekery,
(Member of Congress 0th Di.strict.)

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY • 103

SAMUEL H. CHILES,

Manshal of Jackson County.
Kansas City, Mo., March, 1899.

Hon. Secretary of War,

Washington. D. C.

'&^

Dear Sir: —

I take pleasure in recommending Col. Geo. P. Gross, late commander of
the 3rd Mo. Infantry for the appointment of Colonel of the Mo. U. S. Vol.
Infantry to be raised in the Missouri field.

Col. Gross is a gentleman of military culture, courageous and expe-
rienced in the art of war, having done service in the Civil War on the side
of the Lost Cause, during which his service was commendable as evinced by
those who served with him in that struggle. His appointment to that posi-
tion would meet the hearty approval of the whole state of Missouri and more
especially of his comrades of Camp 80, U. C. V. of Kansas City, Mo.

S. C. Ragan, Capt. Comm'd'g Camp 80, U. C. V., K. C, Mo.

(United Confederate Veterans.)

EAGLE MANUFACTURING CO.

Kansas City, Mo., March 28, 1899.
The Hon. Sec'y. of War,
Sir:—

I am informed that Col. Geo. P. Gross contemplates the organization
of a regiment of Infantry, under the late act of Congress for the increase
of the Army.

The Colonel has had extended experience in that of the Civil War,
Colonel of the 3rd Mo. National Guards, which he reorganized at the call of
the President for troops, and commanded the same, until the close of the
Cuban War. He is in full vigor of manhood, and seems to be born for ]\Iili-
tary service. His recognition by you, would gratify not only Kansas City,
but his extended acquaintance of friends. Your department would be sure
of an efficient officer as well. Hoping we may be recognized in him by
you, I am,

Verv respectfully your obedient servant,

^ H. F. Devol,

Late Col. 36th Ohio Vol.
(Brevet Brig. General). Gen. Russell A. Alger, Sec'y of War,

Washington, D. C.

KANSAS CITY POSTOFFICE.

Otfice of the Postmaster.
Kansas City, Jackson Co., Mo., 3, 16, '99.

To the Honorable Secretary of War,

Washington, D. C.
My Dear Sir:—

Colonel Gross, of this city is an applicant for the appointment
to the Colonelcy under the new Army Bill and I desire to express to you

104 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

my sincere and unqualified endorsement for Colonel Gross and beg to acquaint
you with a few facts pertaining to this matter.

He is a man of fine intelligence and splendid physique and of good
character and a host of friends in the state of ^Missouri, and particularly in
this city. He was a private in the Confederate army, he afterwards became
the Colonel of the 3rd Regiment of Missouri National Guards and took his
regiment as Colonel into the Spanish American service and all Army Ofhcers,
I think, will agree that he presented one of the best regiments that was
called into the service and they made a splendid showing under all circum-
stances, although they never got into attual fighting.

After the war was over his regiment w^as mustered out at Kansas City and
thereafter Colonel Gross resigned his commission as Colonel to the Governor
of the state under the National Guard service.

He is strongly supported by not only Democrats but also by Republi-
cans, all of whom have, and do yet, thoroughly appreciate his military quali-
fications. He is a man capable of commanding, and possessing that judgment
which would justify the assertion that he could be relied upon to make no
mistakes for his government.

I take great pleasure in commending him to your favorable considera-
tion and trust that when Missouri's interests are taken up in reference to
these appointments that Kansas City may be represented by Colonel Gross,
in the position above indicated.

I have the honor to subscribe myself.

Yours very truly,

S. S. Scott.

I join the other friends of Colonel Gross in recommending his appoint-
ment.

William Warner.

FARRAGUT-THOMAS POST, NO. 8.

Department of Missouri, G. A. R.

Kansas City, Mo., April 4, 1899.

Col. Geo. P. Gross,

3rd Regt. U. S. Vol. Inf.,

Kansas City, Mo.
Dear Sir: —

We, ex-Union Soldiers of '61 to '65, entertaining a profound respect for
the fighting ciualitics of the American Soldier, North and South, and having
a firm reliance on the Volunteer Army as the Safeguard of our Republic, do
believe that the Volunteer Soldier should be recognized and encouraged.

AVith that view, and from our knowledge of your character as a man
and citizen, and your experience and actual service as a soldier through two
Avars, and your many years' connection with the Militia of this State as Colonel
of a regiment, Ave regard you as especially fitted for military service, and com-
mand of men, and suggest that you apply, and we most cordially recommend
that you be appointed and commissioned as Colonel of the first regiment of

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 105

United States A^olunteers that may be called into service from this State to
increase the Army.

You are at liberty to call upon us, if you please, for further endorse-
ments, or to use this letter as you deem proper.

Yours truly,

W. H. WoRMSTRAD, Post Commander.
Jere T. Dew, (P. P. P.) and Adjt.

D. H. Porter.

Ross GuFFiN (P. p. C.)
A. B. GuNN.

E. B. PIoward (P. P. C.)
Wm. Henry (P. P. C.)

Washington, D. C, March 18, 1899.
This is to say that Colonel Geo. P. Gross, 3rd Missouri Volunteers, served
under my command in the 2nd Division, 2nd Corps, from May 31, 1898,
until the regiment was mustered out of service in September, 1898.

The regiment was one of the most efficient that I have had the honor
to command, and its Colonel was always able, efficient, prompt in all duties,
and thoroughly reliable. His very extensive military experience and train-
ing in two wars, combined with his high character as a man, give him special
qualifications for further service in commanding a regiment of Volunteers
should their services be required.

George W. Davis,
Brigadier General, U. S. Vols.

(Regular Army Officer.)

HEADQUARTERS SECOND ARMY CORPS,

97th Street and Marine Avenue, Brooklyn, N. Y.

March 31, 1899.
The Honorable Secretary of War,

Washington, D. C.
Sir:-

Understanding that Colonel Geo. P. Gross, late of the 3rd Mo.
Volunteer Infantry is an applicant for the Colonelcy of a Provisional Regi-
ment Volunteer Infantry Regiment should a call be made.

I have the honor to recommend this otHcer as an intelligent, faithful and
worthy soldier.

He is well qualified for the command of a Volunteer regiment and if
appointed will in my judgment do credit to the public service and himself.

I am sir, very respectfully.
Your obedient servant,
(Signed) Wm. Montrose Graham,
Brigadier General U. S. A., Retired. (Regular Army Officer.)

106 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

DEW, PARKINSON <fe BARNES,

Attorneys and Counselors at Law.

^818-19-20-21 N. Y. Life Bldg,
Kansas City, Mo., :\laiTli 25. 1899.
Hon. Russell A. Alger,

Secretary of War,

Washington, I). C.
Dear Sir: —

It is my special pleasure to endorse and recommend Colonel
George P. Gross, late Colonel of the 3rd Missouri Regiment, U. S. Infantry
Volunteers, for the command of the first regiment of Volunteers the State of
Missouri may be called upon to furnish, to increase the U. S. Volunteer Army.
Honest, honorable and honored citizen, endowed with a strong physique
the martial spirit, and a desire to serve his Country ; with experience as a
soldier through two wars, he is eminently qualified by nature, education and
training to command men, and for the position to which he aspires.

Very respectfully,

Jere T. Dew.

Jas. M. Jones, ^layor,

E. Mont. Reily, Private Sec'v

OFFICE OF MAYOR.

Kansa.s City, Mo., March 29th, 1899.

Hon. Secretary of War,

Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir: —

I take special pleasure in reconnnending Col. George P. Gross,
of our city, for the appointment to the Colonelcy of the United States
Vol. Infantry Regiment, supposed to be called in the near future. The Col-
onel is an honest and honorable citizen and responded to the call for troops
during the late war ; commanding until mustered out in November.

His appointment would greatly gratify his many friends, not only in
Kansas City, but throughout the entire state.

He is a strong, vigorous man, of military l)earing, and has had experience
in two wars, thereby making him competent to fill such a position with honor
to the government and to the state. Yours truly,

Jas. M. Jones, Mayor.
Die. J. M. J.

HOUSE OK REPRESENTATIVES V. S.

Washington. D. C.
Kansas City, Mo., April lOtli. 1899.

To The President of The United States,

Washington. D. C.
Sir:-

Coloncl George P. Gross, of Kan.'^as City, T\fo., will ])e an appli-
cant for aupoinliiiciit a.- Colonel for one of the A'ohniti'er Regiincnts to bo

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 107

raised under the army reorganization act, provided you decide to appoint
the same or any of them from Civil life. Colonel Gross has had many years'
experience in military affairs, having served about three years in the Confed-
erate army during the Civil War. He was for several j^ears Colonel of the
Third Regiment of the National Guard of Missouri, and was Colonel of the
Third Regiment of Missouri A^olunteers during the late war with Spain. He
has received high commendations from all of his superior officer?, and I feel
sure his record w411 be found to be one of exceptional merit. He stands high
as a citizen in this comnuniity, and his appointment would please his many
friends of both parties.

I most earnestly recommend him to your kind consideration, and trust
you may find opportunity to give him the place he seeks.

Yours respectfully,

W. S. Cowheul,
M. C. oth District Missouri.

IT. S. DISTRICT COURT,

Western District, Mo.
John F. Philips, Judge.
Kansas City, Mo., March 17th, 189^.
Hon. Russell A. Alger,
Secretary of War,

Washington, D. C.
Dear Sir: —

In the event of a call for volunteer troops and the organiza-
tion of new regiments therefor, should ^Missouri be entitled to one regiment,
I beg to lay before you for consideration the name of Col. George P. Gross
for colonel. Mr. Gross is a man of decidedly military spirit and taste. He
was colonel of one of the "crack" regiments of the National Guards of Mis-
souri at the outbreak with Spain. He organized the Third Regiment of
Missouri Volunteers for that service and went South, and then was stationed
at Camp Alger; but failed of his ambition to reach the front anywhere. This
was a great disappointment to his ambition. His regiment, in my humble
judgment, was one of the best equipped and drilled in the State, and would
have given a good account of itself had the opportunity been afforded it.
Col. Gross is a fighter, and a man of admirable courage, but of excellent
judgment and self control. I know of no man in the State better suited to a
regimental command than he is. With great respect.

Your obedient servant,

John F. Philips.

St. Louis, Mo., March 26, '99.

To the Honorable Secretary of War,

W^ashington, D. C.
Sir:-

Col. George P. Crross, 3rd Mo. Vol. Infantrj^, reported to me in
June, 1898, immediately after I took command of the 3rd Brigade, 2nd Divis-

108 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

ion, 2nd Army Corjvs at Camp R. A. Alger and remained under my command
until mustered out in the fall of the same year.

As a regimental commander I consider him one of the be.st in the
Brigade. He is thoroughly etticient and reliable. His practical experience
and training during the Civil War; his long and honorable service in the
National Guard of iMissouri and now added to these his service and experience
in the Spanish War give him special fitness for the command of a regiment.
His character as an officer and a gentleman are above reproach and if any of
the new Regiments of Volunteers authorized are called into service no better
selection for a commander could be made. I endorse his application and rec-
ommend him for appointment.

Very respectfully,

Nelson Cole,
Brig. Gen'l. U. S. V.

THOMAS S. RIDGE.

The subject of this sketch knows of no adequate reason why his biog-
raphy should appear among those representing the important factors of Kan-
sas City, unless it be that there are so few native-born Kansas Cityans left
who are al)le to contribute the amount required by the publishers for the
space.

Recognizing, however, that biographies are often an inspiration, and be-
lieving that there are characters among the citizens, past and present, who
have made Kansas City famous, whose histories should be perpetuated, I am
willing to aid in the good work.

My own career, however, has been so far short of famous, that there
is no one qualified to chronicle the events thereof, truthfully; and for that
reason, this is an autobiography with a recitation of some of the influences
which shaped my life.

My father. Dr. I. M. Ridge, came to Kansas City, then Westport Land-
ing in 1848, after having taken a medical course at Transylvania College;
his acquirements at that time consi.>^ted of a saddle horse which his father
had furnished him, a pair of saddle bags, a limited quantity of staple drugs
and a technical medical education. In 1850 he married Eliza Ann Smart,
my mother (than whom a. better mother never lived), second daughter of
Judge Thomas Smart, a ])ioneer farmer, merchant and jurist. During the
winter of that same year, with the linaneial assistance of Judge Smart, he
attended the .Tofferson Medical College in St. Louis, while his young wife
remained ,it liei- fatlicr's lionie. at the southwest coi'uei' of Eleventli and Wal-
nut streets. Upon his return. Judge Smart told liini to go out in the pasture
and select a site for a house, horse-lot, garden and orchard. Tie did so,
selecting in the northwest coi-ner of the farm, about four acres, through
which the S;nila Fc trail led from the I'iver to Westport. This was dee.ded
to my fatliei' and mother jointlw at ni\- mothers recniest.

THOMAS S. RIDGE.

THE r.u

\'I ^ORK

PUBLIC

LIBRARY

ASTOR,

LENOX

TILDFN F(

T* --TION^

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 111

As was the custom in those days, the neighbors raised a log house of
two rooms, in which my father and mother Hved, and my father opened
his othce and apothecary shop. My mother acted as clerk, and filled all
])re.scriptioiis. In this house were Worn my eldest sister, Sophia, who died
when a child, and my brother, William E. Ridge. The house set at the
southeast corner of Ninth and jNIain streets, and was afterward used as a
blacksmith shop by a ^Ir. ]\Iiller.

Prosperity came to Kansas City with many settlers during the '50s, and
in 1859 my father traded to Solomon and William Smith, the lots at the
southwest corner of Ninth and ^lain streets, for the materials and labor neces-
sary to build a story and a half brick cottage at 910 Walnut street. This
at the time was one of the most pretentious residences in Kansas City. It
was hardly completed at the time of my advent, November 26, 1859.

My earliest recollections are incidents of the Civil war. In 1864, I re-
call the great excitement occasioned by the rumor that Price was on the way
from Jefferson City to Kansas City. In company with a small girl, Agnes
Newell, whose father was serving in the army, I sought the gunsmith's shop
of ]\Ir. Me.'^sick, located then on Main street between Fifth street and Missouri
avenue, to obtain a gun with which to shoot old Price. In recognition of
this marked patriotism, my uncle, George W. Ridge, who had been a theolog-
ical student at Bethany College, West Virginia, until hostilities had closed
the school, after which he made his home with us, presented me with a
soldiers uniform, drum and tin gun. I was thus equipped ^vhen a detail
of German Infantry from Fort Leavenworth wa.s sent to arrest nly father,
Nvho had been reported as aiding the rebels. My patriotism was thus banished
for paternalism, and observing four of the Hessians reclining on the grass
in the shade of a large wild rose bush that grew near the south window of
the sitting room, I recklessly sallied forth and shot the stick from my tin
gun at the head of one of the soldiers. The attack was repulsed, but the
animosity for hirelings serving in the robe of patriotism was fixed forever in
my nature.

At the close of the war, in company with my cousin, now Mrs. Langston
Bacon, I attended my first school, a private one taught by Miss Mollie
Cravens, now Mrs. Leach, who is now teaching in the public schools of Kan-
sas City, and whose memory is worthy of perpetuation. At this school I
learned my A B C's and those renowned gems of poetic inspiration —
"Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star," ''Mary had a Little Lamb," etc.

In 1868 our family moved to what was known as the farm, a tract of
eighty-four acres between Nineteenth and Twenty-second streets, Woodland
and Prospect avenue, which my father had as trustee acquired for my mother
and her children, with means provided by my mother from the earnings of
her household darkies and loans from my grandfather. From this home I at-
tended first a private school and afterward the public schools in Kansas City,
until 1873, w'hen, on account of the health of my mother, and the marriage
of my brother, we again moved to the old home at No. 910 Walnut street.
In 1874, having reached the age when boys begin to keep company with
the girls, I requested of my father, a new suit of clothes and received from

112 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

him the reply that if I should undertake to earn my own clothing, or the
means to buy my clothing, that I would not be quite so extravagant. This
suggestion was all that wa.s necessary and within one week from that time
I had secured a position, distributing papers before school hours in the
morning, with the result that in 1876 I had not only clothed myself for two
years, but had accumulated in the .savings bank about three hundred and
sixty dollars, which I loaned to my father, to redeem the property which
I understood had been sold for city taxes.

In 1878, my mother died, and in 1879 my sister and myself went to
Columbia to the Christian College and State University, respectively, to com-
plete our education, I having graduated at Kansas City high school, in June
pre^'iou3.

In September, 1879, my grandfather, Judge Thomas A. Smart, died,
and from his estate my mother's children received several vacant lots in
Kansas City and two thousand five hundred dollars each in money. My
father collected the money coming to my sister and myself and began the
im])rovement of four of the vacant lois which we had inherite.d.

In 1881, having reached my majority during the fall of the preceding
year, my father prevailed upon my sister, brother and myself, to make a
deed to him, for the eighty-four acres comprising the farm. As children
we did not know l)ut what this property belonged to him absolutely. Upon his
promise that he would finish the buildings which he had begun, for us, and
deed to us absolutely one-half of the farm, we were prevailed upon to make
the transfer.

I completed the academic course in the State University in June, 1884,
and in the fall of the same year was married to Miss Effie Searcy, the eldest
daughter of Francis M. Searcy, of Columbia, Missouri. For four of the
five years during which I attended the university I had been in the same
classes Avith Miss Searcy and was thereby enabled to intelligently judge of
her merits and qualifications to make me a suitable life mate.

After marrying, I embarked in the hardware and sheet metal business
ill Kansas City with Henry AVeis under the firm name of AVeLs & Ridge. I
built the Ijuilding at No. 1116 Main street, in which we conducted our busi-
ness until 1890. During the same time I enlarged the building occupied
by the John Taylor Dry (loods Company and built a large live story build-
ing at the corner of Twelfth street and Baltimore avenue, besides the resi-
dence at No. 1006 Holmes street, in which I lived for seventeen years.

In 1890, at the solicitation of the stockholders of the Central Bank, I
a.ssumed the presidency of that institution, and in the fall of 1891, upon
my recommendation, its affairs were liquidated. In 1889, I had also re-
tired from the active management of the business of Weis & Ridge, and
had begun to buy and sell real estate for customers on my own account.

In 1902, in connection with Mr. John A. Bryant, I bought an interest
in the insurance business of Mr. Joseph Mariner, and for a time united it
with my real estate business, conducting the same under the firm nanic of
Ridge. Mariner & Bryant. In 1903 we l)ought Mr. Mariner's interest and
united Avith Mr. D. P. Huiifer. who had been foi- nianv vears established

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 113

in the insurance business. The firm name then became Hunter, Ridge &
Bryant, and so continued until the spring of 1907. During this connection
I took the active management of the surety and casualty lines, and in 1907,
when I separated from the firm, I individually continued these lines. What
success I have attained in the commercial world is due to perseverance,
energy and frugality.

I have three boys, the eldest, Francis I Ridge, is attending the College
of Physicians and Surgeons in New York city; the other two, Thomas S.,
Jr., and William Searcy, being in the ward schools of Kansas City.

My political allegiance has always been with the democratic party.
Twice I have been nominated for the office of city treasurer. My religious
inclinations have been with the Christian church, or the Disciples of Christ.
I have always taken great pleasure in this affiliation, and have been active
in the work, both in the Bible school and the church. In 1889, in connec-
tion with my other work, at the solicitation of my church, I organized a
mission work in Armourdale, Kansas, now a portion of Kansas City, Kansas,
with the result that a congregation was established, and a church built in
1903.

I am also a member of secret and benevolent organizations, among
which are the Masonic bodies and the Pythian order. The Commercial Club,
Manufacturers Association and all other organizations whose motives are
the advancement of our city's interests meet with my hearty support and co-
operation. I have always found a niche in this young and growing com-
munity which I could occupy with credit and profit to myself and without
injury to others. I attribute my position in the esteem of my fellow citi-
zens to my feeble attempts to do what I believe Jesus Christ taught by word
and precept.

JAMES D. COLE.

James D. Cole, conducting a wholesale business in coal and hay, was
born in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, August 25, 1862, being one of the
five children of Jedediah and Katherine (Dickens) Cole. The mother was
a daughter of .James Dickens, a cousin of Charles Dickens, the famous Eng-
lish novelist. Jedediah Cole was a civil engineer by profession and at the
time of the Civil war put aside all business and personal considerations
to serve his country, joining the Thirty-first Wisconsin Regiment, under
George R. Peck. He served for three years and rose to the command of his
company, being mustered out with the rank of captain. He returned to
the north with a most creditable military record and after the close of the
war removed to northern Ohio, where he is still living. The honor and
esteem in which he is uniformly held there and the confidence reposed in
him is indicated by the fact that he has continuously served as county sur-
veyor of Portage county for thirty-six years. He is a republican in pol-
itics, inflexible in his support of the principles of the party, and as a mem-
ber of the Masonic fraternity is equally loyal to the teachings of the craft.

114 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

James D. Cole was reared at home to the age of seventeen year.- and
acquired a pubUc-school education. In 1880 he removed westward to Chi-
cago, arriving in that city with a capital of but four dollars. There he
took passage on a boat the next 'day for Thunder Bay and thence made his
way through to Winnipeg, Manitoba, and into the wheat fields of that coun-
try, where he engaged at shocking wheat for two dollars per day. Later he
worked in a sawmill and subsequently made his way to Kansas, settling at
Atchison, where he engaged in the wholesale and retail coal business, ^^'ith
this he was identified until 1895, when he came to Kansas City and con-
tinued the business here. In 1897 he organized the Arkansas Fuel Company
and since his removal to Kansas City has confined his attention to the whole-
sale business. For the past ten years he also engaged in the wholesale hay
trade and is sole proprietor of the two interests. He is now one of the well
known business men of the city, alert and energetic, improving every oppor-
tunity with the result that he is today numbered among the men of afflu-
ence in this part of the state.

Mr. Cole was married to Miss Katherine Garside, of Atchison, a
daughter of Joshua Garside, who was prominently identified with overland
transportation in the early days. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Cole was
celebrated November 1, 1888, and has been blessed with two children:
Francis G. and Katherine D. Mrs. Cole is a member of the INIethodist
Episcopal church and, like her husband, is widely and favorably known in
social circles. His political views accord with the principles of the repub-
lican party and he is a member of the Masonic lodge, loyal and faithfid
to the teachings of the craft. As the architect of his own fortunes, he has
budded wisely and well and his life record illustrated the possibilities for
successful accomplishment to those who have the will to dare and to do.

EDWARD T. GROVES.

Edward T. Groves, serving as alderman of Kansas City from the second
ward, has in office and out of it done effective work for the promotion of im-
portant interests bearing upon the progress, development and improvement of
Kansas City. Here he has made his home for twenty-eight years, coming
from Davenport, Iowa, in 1880. He is, however, of English nativity, his birth
having occurred in London in 1849. The first six years of his life were passed
in that country and in LSoo he came to the new world with his parents, Mr.
and Mi's. Walter William Groves, who settled in Diivenport, Iowa. The father
was a hatter in London, engaged in the manufacture of silk hats at Strand
and Regent streets. Ho liad been a resident of Davenport for only a year
when he was called to his final rest.

Edward T. Groves ])ursued his education in the j)ublie schools of Daven-
port, where he lived until nbout twenty-five years of age. He then came to
Kansas City, where he engaged in the general contracting business until 1900.
He met with excellent success in his undertakings and added year by year to
his capital until his accumulations were sufficient to enable him to put aside

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 115

further business cares and live retired. He then turned his business over to
his son, Waker B., who had been associated with him in its conduct since
1901. He erected the Jones building, also several store buildings, remodeled
many others and likewise erected several houses in Kansas City.

Mr. Groves was married in Davenport in 1874 to Miss Mary B. Noonen,
of the state of New York, and unto them were born six children : E. W., who
is now in St. Joseph, Missouri; Eugene J., who is with the Western Trafifio
Association, of Kansas City; John A., traveling auditor for the Western Traffic
Association; Maggie, the wife of Charles L. Hogan; Walter B., who is his
father's successor in the general contracting business; and Marie, now a student
in the Sister Loretta school.

In fraternal circles Mr. Groves is well known and popular. In Masonry
he has attained the Knight Templar degree and he also belongs to the Benevo-
lent and Protective Order of Elks and the Knights of Pythias. In politics he
ha.s ever been an earnest republican. He was one of the juveniles who wore
a uniform in 1860 when Abraham Lincoln was presidential candidate and
took a most lively interest in that campaign. He has since been unfaltering
in his allegiance to the party, for he believes its principles are most conducive
to good government. In 1906 he was chosen to represent the second ward in
the city council and is one of its prominent members. He is now chairman
of the joint committee on the proposed new Union station, is serving on the
gas committee, on the judiciary and rules committee, and is chairman of the
streets, alleys and grades committee. He is likewise a member of the fire
patrol committee and thus is actively associated with various interests having
direct l)earing upon municipal welfare. He is today numbered among the
leading, influential and honored residents here and is regarded as a most
acceptable incumbent in the office in which he is now serving.

JUDGE JULES E. GUINOTTE.

Jules Edgar Guinotte. judge of the probate court in Kansas City, was
born August 20, 1855, in the old Guinotte homestead at Fourth and Troost
streets, one of the most historic spots in the city. He is a son of Joseph and
Aimee (Bri chant) Guinotte, the latter a native of Belgium. In the paternal
line he is a representative of one of the old Belgium families, closely con-
nected with what is one of the most picturesque and interesting periods in the
history of the city. His father, a civil engineer, was sent to Mexico by the
Belgium government to supervise the construction of a railroad, but the war
between Mexico and the United States caused the enterprise to be abandoned
and, proceeding northward, he made his way up the Missouri river to West-
port Landing. His prescience enabled him to realize that this was an excel-
lent location for a large city and he purchased twelve thousand acres on the
bluffs in the east bottoms, after which he brought over Belgium colonists and
settled land.

116 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

On one of the highest bhiffs was a large log house, which he purchased
from Mrs. Frances Chouteau in 1850. It had been the Chouteau home for
several years and became his homestead, remaining his place of residence
until his death in 1867, when it was sold by Mrs. Guinotte, who intended to
return to Brussels, but on the death of her parents she again purchased the
old Chouteau homestead and there resided until 1889. In 1852 she came from
Brussels to the United States to become the wife of Joseph Guinotte, who met
her in New York city, where they were married, after which j\Ir. Guinotte
brought his bride to the Kansas City homestead. Their home soon gained a
reputation for bounteous and generous hospitality. There were entertained
many notable visitors, including Father De Smet, Bishop L'Ami of Mexico,
Bishop Miege and Bishop Salpointe of Arizona and Mexico, while among the
traders were Captain Bridger, Vasquez, the Papins, Chouteaus, and others.

Reared amid the refining influences of a cultured home and educated in
the private schools of Kansas City and in the St. Louis University, Judge
Guinotte afterward spent several years in clerical work in various offices of
Kansas City, his last position of that character being deputy clerk in the office
of Hon. Wallace Laws, for many years circuit clerk of Jackson county.
Determining to devote his life to the practice of law, he then became a student
in the office of Tichenor & Warner, well known attorneys, with whom he con-
tinued his reading until his admission to the bar. He is recognized as a lawj^er
of w^ide knowledge and one who in the practice of the profession manifested
unfaltering fidelity to the interests of his clients. No higher testimonial of
his service on the bench could be given than the fact that he has continu-
ously held the office of probate judge of Jackson county since 1886, when he
was elected on the democratic ticket by a large majority, receiving the sup-
port <if iiiaiiy of the best known republican.-; of his di-strict. At each election
since he has been again chosen for the office and thus the stamp of public
approval is placed upon a service characterized by thorough understanding of
probate law and by the utmost accuracy and fidelity in the discharge of his
duties.

On the 24th of May, 1883, Mr. Guinotte was married to Miss Maud
Stark, a daughter of Dr. John K. Stark, a pioneer dentist of Jackson county.
The family are communicants of the Catholic church. The Guinotte home of
the present day enjoys the same reputation for hospitality borne by the old
parental homestead and in social circles Mr. and Mrs. Guinotte have many
warm friends.

ALFRED TOLL.

Alfred Toll at the age of seventy-six years. i< a.- active in business circles
as many a man of half his age and the splendid success which he has attained
is the direct outcome of his intense activity, intelligently applied. He has
noted and utilized opporlunities that others have passed by heedlessly and
while the life record of others may have been more spectacular, his has
been none the less essential or iiiij)nrtant. for he belongs to that class of rep-

ALFRED TOLL.

PUB^L^- l^iBKARY

;^STOR. LENOX

TlLDe

isl FO'-'N»''

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 119

resentative American men who in promoting individual success contribute
also to the public good.

He was born in Schenectady, New York, January 6, 1832. His father,
Phillip R. Toll, w^as also a native of New York and a direct descendant of
Charles Hansen Toll, who sailed from Sw^eden, was arrested by Algerian
pirates and held for bounty, and escaping, swam six miles to a British mer-
chantman which carried him to South America. Thence he made his way
to New York, where he arrived in 1748. He secured large grants of land
around the present site of the city of Schenectady and became a very promi-
nent figure in the early history of that section of the state, his name figuring
conspicuously in its annals. Phillip R. Toll, the father, was married in
early manhood to Miss Nancy DeGraaf, also a native of the Empire state and
a representative of one of the oldest and wealthiest Holland Dutch families
of New York. Her brother, John S. DeGraaf, furnished the United States
government with all of the funds for the equipment of the naval fleet on the
Great Lakes in the war of 1812, which enormous loan was never repaid until
long after his death. He was also one of the organizers and a director of
the first railroad built in America. In the year 1841 Phillip R. Toll, with his
wife and family, left New York to become pioneer settlers of St. Joseph
county, Michigan, where he spent his remaining days. His wiie, who was
born September 17, 1797, died March 27, 1898, at the remarkable old age
of one hundred years, six months and ten days. Two sons of the family are
still living, the younger being General I. D. Toll, of Petoskey, Michigan.

The elder, Alfred Toll, of Kansas City, acquired his education in St. Jo-
seph county, Michigan, and in Fort Wayne, Indiana, returning from the
latter place to the former and there engaging in business as a general mer-
chant. He also conducted a sawmill and flourmill there and was a prominent
and active factor in business life in that locality until May, 1866, when he
removed to Hannibal, Missouri, where for twenty years he successfully con-
ducted a lumber business. In 1873 he assisted in organizing the Badger State
Lumber Company at Hannibal with mills in Wisconsin, and in 1886 organ-
ized the Badger Lumber Company to conduct the retail yards of the former
and handle the products of its manufacture in the North, removing to Kansas
City to make this the headquarters of the business. Through his untiring
energies and skillful manipulation of business interests the enterprise has
in the twenty-two years of its existence become one of the largest and best
known lumber industries of this part of the country. Mr. Toll also organized
the Fort Smith Lumber Company of Fort Smith, Arkansas, which operates
four mills and owns ninety-four thousand acres of timber land. He likewise
built the Central Railroad of Arkansas and at the present time is president
of the Badger Lumber Company, the Fort Smith Lumber Company, the Cen-
tral Railroad of Arkansa,s and the Choctaw Investment Company, beside
being an officer and director in various other financial and commercial in-
stitutions. He is now in his seventy-seventh year but robust and strong and
no man in his employ leads a more active or strenuous life.

On the 6th of Januarv, 1863, Mr. Toll was married to ^liss Marv Lee, a
daughter of Warren and Eliza Lee, of Maryland. They have one son, Phillip

120 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

R., Avho was born November 22, 1863, and is now connected with the father
in the lumber business.

Those who have personal acquaintance with Mr. Toll know him as a
man of genial nature, warm hearted and sympathetic, holding friendship
inviolable and manifesting unfaltering loyalty to every trust. Charitable and
benevolent interests have received his generous support and in matters of
citizenship his position is never an equivocal one. He stands always in sup-
port of progress and imi^rovement and in municipal affairs, as in business
life, looks beyond the exigencies of the moment to the possibilities of the
future. He has never sought to figure in public life, however, but has given,
his time and attention to his home and his business. In the latter he has
made a record which any man might be proud to possess. He has gradually
worked his w^ay upward and the attainment of success has been accompanied
by the acquirement -of an unsullied reputation built upon his fulfillment of
every obligation and his straightforward dealings in every relation. It is
seldom that a man of his years shows such activity and enterprise in business
or keeps pace with the modern spirit as he has done and it is more seldom that
a man controlling such extensive and important interests is spoken of in
terms of such unqualified confidence and respect.

EDMUND. E. MORRIS.

Edmund E. Morris, who stands high in the profession of law as one
of the younger members of the Kansas City bar and who is popular with a
large circle of friends, was born at Salina, Kansas, January 13, 1872. His
father, William E. Morris, was a mechanic and a native of Missouri, whence
he removed to Salina, Kansas, as a pioneer. He took up his abode upon
a farm in Rice county in 1873 and in 1884 went to Lamed, Kansas, while
three years later he became a resident of Topeka, Kansas, and since 1892 has
made his home in California. He married Anna E. Bonham, a native of
Wisconsin, who is with him on the Pacific coast.

Ivliiiund E. Morris, accompanying his parents on their various remov-
als, ])nrsncd his education in the connnon and liigh schools of Larned and
Topeka, Kansas, and when his father went to the coast in 1892 Mr. ]\Iorris
came to Kansas City, where he has since made his home. For three years
he was bookkeeper and cashier for the Interstate Rolling Mills and left that
position to enter the Missouri National Bank, where he remained until the
institution was closed in 1896. He next entered the office of the Hodge
Electrical & Manufacturing Company as ca.shier and a.ssi.^tant manager
and there remained until 1903. For several years he had been studying law
in the evenings and his leisure hours and afterward pursued a course in the
Kansas School of Law, from which he was graduated. In 1903 he was ad-
mitted to the bar and the following year he began practice. For one year
ho was associated with Henry P. Lowenstein and since that time has been
alone. He conducts a general law practice but ^necializes in real estate and

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 121

corporation law. He has been unusually successful and at all times has man-
ifested the strong purpose and diligence which are as necessary to success
in the difficult and arduous profession of the law as in mechanical or com-
mercial pursuits. He never neglects to give a thorough preparation and in
the presentation of his cause before the court is concise and clear and cogent
in his reasoning.

On the 1st of March, 1899, Mr. Morris was married to Miss Mattie J.
Jones, a daughter of E. C. Jones, president of the State Savings Bank of
Springfield, Missouri. He is prominent in Masonry, being past worshipful
master of Temple lodge, F. & A. M. ; past high priest of Orient Chapter, R.
A. M. ; past thrice illustrious master of Shekinali Council, R. & S. M. ;
present senior warden of Oriental Commandery, K. T. ; and a member of
Ararat Temple of the Mystic Shrine. He was formerly president of the
Knife and Fork Club and has been presiding officer in numerous other or-
ganizations of Kansas City. In politics he is an earnest and zealous Repub-
lican, having been active in the ranks of the party from the age of eighteen
years, when he made campaign speeches in support of Governor Humphrey,
of Kansas. He has since delivered many campaign addresses and never
fails to impress his auditors through the clearness of his statements and the
logic of his deductions. He was elected to the lower house of the city coun-
cil April 3, 1906, and has been an ardent champion of temperance, being
considered Mayor Beardsley's right hand man in the lower house. He is
a warm admirer of the mayor and also an enthusiastic supporter of Presi-
dent Roosevelt. He belongs to the Independence Boulevard Christian
church, in which he takes an active interest. Of strong intellectual and
studious disposition, with high ideals, conscientious and honorable, he is a
credit to the profession and in social circles is a favorite by reason of a genial,
frank and social nature. He possesses in large degree that quality which
for want of a better term has been termed personal magnetism and has the
happy faculty not only of winning but of retaining friendships.

PROFESSOR JOSEPH C. MASON.

The name of Professor Joseph C. Mason is associated with the educa-
tional development of Kansas City. He became principal of the Central
school of Wyandotte in 1888 and so continued until his death. He was born
in Marlboro, New Hampshire, March 13, 1837, a son of Clark and Almira
(Towne) Mason, both of Avhom were natives of the Old Granite state. Ther^
the father engaged in farming throughout his entire life and both he and
his wife died at the old homestead. Their son. Professor Mason, was reared
upon the farm and his early education was acquired in the public schools.
In his youth he became imbued with the desire to become an attorney and
took up the study of law at home, pursuing his reading privately for a time,
while later he attended the university at Albany, Ncav York, and afterward
became a student in the law school at Petersboro, New Hampshire, where m

122 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

due course of time he acquainted himself with the branches that constituted
the curriculum there and was admitted to the bar at Concord, New Hamp-
shire.

Locating for practice at Greenville, New Hampshire, Mr. Mason contin-
ued as an active representative of the bar for a few years, after which he
came to the we,st and settled in Boonville, Missouri. There he organized
the public-school system and was superintendent of schools for five years.
From that time forward his life was given to educational work. He was asso-
ciated with the schools of different towns and also engaged in law practice
throughout the remainder of his days, although his educational work claimed
most of his time. From Boonville, Missouri, he removed to St. Louis and
was there principal of the Washington school for three years. He next went
to Vicksburg, Mississippi, where for two years he occupied the superinten-
dency of the city schools, followed by a removal to Columbus, Mississippi,
where he had charge of the Franklin Academy for two years. Subsequently,
in Carthage, Missouri, he acted as city superintendent of schools for five years,
after which he removed to Joplin, Missouri, where he remained for ten years.
During that time he was city superintendent of the schools and also engaged
in the practice of law. He came from Joplin to Kansas City in 1888 to ac-
cept the principalship of the Central school of Wyandotte and continued
there in charge until his demise.

Professor Mason was married at Greenville, New Hampshire, to Miss
Mattie J. Kingsbury, a native of Boston and a daughter of Lucius W. Kings-
bury, who spent the greater part of his life at Waltham, JNIassachussetts, and
was engaged in railroad work. For many years he was a conductor on the
Boston & Maine Railroad, and he was also conductor on the first car that
passed through the Hoosac tunnel. Both he and his wife died in Waltham.
Unto Professor and Mrs. Mason were born three children : Hortense, who
resides with her mother and is now a teacher in the Hyde Park school of
Kansas City; and Ernest C. and Paul J., who constitute the firm of ^Mason
Brothers, proprietors of a leading drug store which is situated at the southwest
corner of Thirty-first and Holmes streets. The former married Delia Knight,
iiiid r:'-i(l('s at No. 'M^lo Holmes street, while the latter married .lean Aleshire,
and resides at No. 3030 Oak street. For about a year prior to his demise,
Professor Mason was in ill health and passed away April 25, 1892, at his home
in Kansas City, Kansas, his remains being interred there. After coming here
he had invested in property both in Kansas City, Kansa.-. and Kansas City,
Missouri, his realty holdings being quite extensive, so that he was enabled to
leave his family in very comfortable circumstances.

Ill politics Mr. ^lasoii wa- a stanch republican, was active in the win'k
of the ])arty of Jo])lin, Missouri, and there served as alderman for several
year-. .In~t het'ore hi- reiiioxal to the west he, was state (•(»niiiiis,-ionci' at (Jreen-
ville, New Hampshire, for two years. Throughout his entire life he was con-
nected with the Knights of Honor, a tt'nii tyi)ical of hi- career, for in every
relation of life he was honorable, ui)i'ight and sincere, always loyal to his
professions as a rnemlior of tlie Presbyterian church, to which his wife also
belongs. Since h(_'r husband".- death Mrs. IShison has ^ol(l nnich of the proj)-

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY • 123

erty, together with the home in Kansas City, Kansas, and has taken up her
abode in Kansas City, Missouri, where she and her daughter now reside at
No. 3030 Oak street.

GUSTAF PEARSON.

Gustaf Pearson, city comptroller, was born near Gottenburg, Sweden,
March 17, 1859. His father, Hans Pearson, was a farmer and wedded Ellen
Gabrielson. Upon the home farm Gustaf Pearson was reared and when he
had obtained his more specifically literary education in the common and high
schools he took up the study of civil engineering in a military school at Gotten-
burg. The reports which reached him concerning business opportunities in
America led him to seek a home in the new world, where he arrived on the
5th of April, 1879, settling in Clearfield, Pennsylvania. He secured employ-
ment in the coal mines of Hotsdale wdth a view to becoming a mining engineer,
and worked there for one year in various capacities, his last service being as
weighmaster. Continuing his westward journey, he went to Leadville, Col-
orado, but as mining conditions were bad there he remained for only a short
time and afterward sought employment in various mining camps of Colorado,
New Mexico, Wyoming and Idaho, working for a short time at each place.

On the 12th of October, 1880. Mr. Pearson arrived at Osage City, Kansas,
where he located, and for ten years was employed at coal mining by various
companies, becoming superintendent of a mine. When the Chicago, Mil-
Avaukee & St. Paul Railway was opened up through the coal districts of south-
ern Iowa he went to Appanoose county, where he constructed, superintended
and managed several mines, in which he is still interested. When he pro-
ceeded to that territory with a force of surveyors there was only one farm house
on the site of the present city of Mystic with its population of five thousand.
During later years, at Osage City and also at Mystic, he was dealing largely
with Kansas City and vicinity and spent much of his time here, having con-
ducted a coalyard and office here for a number of years. In 1897 he took
up his abode here and has since made it his home. For some time his interests
have been gradually drifting from the coal business to real estate as he made
investments in Kansas City and in lands in both the states of Kansas and Mis-
souri. During ^Nhiyor Reed's second administration he was a candidate for
alderman of the uj^per house but with the entire republican ticket was de-
feated. In November, 1904, he was appointed city comptroller, which posi-
tion he has since continued to fill, and in the discharge of his duties he has
been faithful, reliable and efiicient.

On the 29th of June, 1885, Mr. Pearson was married to Miss Mary Eliza-
beth Anderson, a daughter of H. 0. iVnderson, of Osage City, Kansas, who
was born in Bureau county, Illinois. They have two children, both natives
of Osage City : Ellen Josephine, now the wife of Carl Kellner, who is engaged
in the bond, insurance and real-estate business in Kansas City; and Adeline
Christine, at home.

124 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Mr. Pearson is a Mason and an Odd Fellow. He also belongs to the
Ancient Order of United Workmen, to the Red Men, the Maccabees and the
N. N. & E., a local Swedish organization for the instruction of Swedes in the
English language and American citizenship. He is likewise a popular mem-
ber of many clubs and an interested and helpful member of the Methodist
Episcopal church. His sterling qualities render him a congenial companion
and in manner he is social yet modest and unassuming.* Since crossing the
Atlantic he has been dependent upon his own resources for his advancement
and through the utilization of his opportunities he has made a creditable name
in business, political and social circles.

GEORGE HALLEY, M. D.

Dr. George Halley, who in his practice ha.s .specialized in surgery, is
well known to the medical profession of the country through his writings
and as an educator, while in Kansas City he has gained an extensive and im-
portant practice as a recognition on the part of the public of his superior
skill and efficiency. He was born in Aurora, York county, Ontario, Canada,
September 10, 1839, his parents being George and Jane Halley. He is a de-
scendant of Sir Edmund Halley, a famous English astronomer, and in the
maternal line of James Baird, a civil engineer of Scotland. From York
county his father removed to Wellington county, Ontario, where in the midst
of the forest he developed a farm and because of the situation of the family
home upon the frontier in a most sparsely settled district. Dr. Halley had
no school advantages until he attained the age of fifteen years. His parents
gave him instruction to some extent and he had access to a small but good
library and thus he laid the foundation for the breadth of knowledge which
characterizes him at the present day. Between 1854 and 1858 he spent three
winters as a pupil in the common schools, which had then been established,
and later he entered the county grammar school, where he prepared for col-
lege. His studies were interrupted by the death of two of his brothers but
he continued his school work alone in the evenings at home and thus quali-
fied for entrance to the Victoria University at Toronto, wherein he matricu-
lated in 1865 as a medical student. In 1867 he was appointed prosector to the
chair in anatomy and in the following March went to New York city, where
he pursued a spring course at Long Island College Hospital. The succeeding
summer was passed in attending clinical instruction in various hospitals and
dispensaries, and in the autumn he reentered the Victoria University, from
which he was graduated in March, 1869, with the M.D. degree.

On account of his father's death, however, he had to return home and
manage the farming interests until 1870, when he made his way to the west
in search of a location. He decided upon Kansas Cit'y, and for thirty-eight
years has been a representative of the medical fraternity here, making, how-
ever, a specialty of surgery in his practice. In this conection he has won more
than local fame. In ]\Iay. 1874, he performed the first operation in Kansas

DR. GEORGE HALLEY.

" K

pubIicubhary

ASTOR. LENOX

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 127

City for ovariotomy, in which he was successful. In 1870 he was appointed
assistant demonstrator of- anatomy in the College of Physicians & Surgeons
and has almost continuously since that time been connected with educational
work along the line of the profession. In 1871 he was elected professor of
anatomy to succeed Dr. A. D. Taylor, who had been called to the chair
of surgery and on the death of Dr. Taylor in 1882 he again became his suc-
cessor, occupying the chair of surgery in the College of Physicians & Surgeons
until 1891. In 1892 he was made professor of surgery in the University
Medical College and so continues to the present time. From 1888 until 1895
he conducted a private hospital, which brought him special advantages
through its thorough equipment in the performance of surgical operation.
In 1884, in connection with Dr. A. L. Fulton, he established the Kansas
City Medical Record, the oldest local medical journal now in existence, and
was associated therewith for several years. He has been a constant contributor
to medical journals and has frequently prepared and delivered papers be-
fore medical societies upon the discussion of various points of interest to
the profession. He has continuously been a student and his wide research and
investigation have constantly broadened his knowledge, while his experience
has continually promoted his efficiency.

In 1871 Dr. Halley was married to Miss Florence Chiles, who was a mem-
ber of the Methodist church, and died in that faith in 1887, leaving one
daughter, Georgia E., now the wife of Donald Lotshaw, associate editor of
the Kansas City Star. In November, 1889, Dr. Halley was again married,
his second union being with Miss Jessie, daughter of Dr. .1. Q. Egelston, of
Olathe, Kansas. Their two children are George E. and Eleanor J.

JAMES W. L. SLAYENS.

The salient features in the life record of James W. L. Slavens, de-
ceased, were those which connected him with the bar of Kansas City as a
prominent attorney and identified him with the pioneer development of the
city. He stood for progress and advancement in municipal lines and for
one term was honored with the mayoralty. His life record began in Putnam
county, Indiana, August 3, 1838. His great-grandfather, John Slavens,
was a Scotch-Irish Protestant, who settled in Virginia in early life and
there reared a large family, his youngest son being Isaiah Slavens, who
served for five years in the Revolutionary war, valiantly defending the in-
terests of the colonists. After the war he married a Miss Stewart of ]Mary-
land and removed to Kentucky, where he engaged in farming for some
time. Three of his sons enlisted for service in the war of 1812 and Isaiah
Slavens afterward joined them, immediately volunteering and serving out
the term of his enlistment. His last days were spent in Putnam county,
Indiana, where he died at the venerable age of eighty-six years.

His son, Hiram B. Slavens, the father of our subject, was born in ]\Iont-
gomery county, Kentucky, in 1802, and acquired a good education for

128 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

those days. For several years in early manhood he taught school in his
native county and in 1827 he removed to Putnam county, Indiana, wliere
he entered land from the government and engaged in farming, making his
home upon his place which he there developed throughout his remaining
days. He was widely known as a loyal and enterprising citizen a. id u
earnest, effective friend of the cause of education. He gave active aid in
founding Asbury University of Indiana and in many other ways showed
his deep interest in the intellectual progress of the state. In 1830 he mar-
ried Sarah Holland, a daughter of William and Susanna (Grant) Holland,
of Bath county, Kentucky. Her ancestors came from England and Scot-
land in colonial days and settled in Virginia.

James W. L. Slavens was reared uj^on his father's farm and assisted
in its development until he was old enough to attend school, when he
entered the Asbury University of Indiana, pursuing a classical course,
which he completed with high honors in 1859. Following his graduation
he removed to Douglas county, Illinois, where he was married to Miss Mat-
tie McNutt, a daughter of Collin and Mary McNutt, both natives of Doug-
las county, Illinois, where Mr. McNutt was engaged in general farming until
about 1870. He then removed westward, settling in Kansas City, where he
lived retired until his death, while his wife also passed away here.

Prior to his marriage Mr. Slavens had purchased a tract of land in
Douglas county, Illinois, and after that important event in his life he
settled upon his farm to improve and develop it. He fenced the land and
there carried on general agricultural pursuits for a year, after wliich he
placed a tenant upon the property. In the meantime he gave considerable
attention to the study of law, which he prosecuted exclusively the ensuing
year and in the spring of 1861 he entered upon the practice of the profes-
sion in Tuscola, Illinois, with William McKenzie. Soon after the outbreak
of the Civil war he enlisted for service in the Seventy-third Illinois Volun-
teer Regiment and was commissioned quartermaster. Soon after going to
the front, however, he was detailed for duty in the subsistence department,
W'here he continued until the close of the war, serving the last year on the
staff of Major General George H. Thomas. He was mustered out in July,
1865.

In the fall of that year Mr. Slavens came to Jackson county and after
living for a short time in Independence, took up his abode in Kansas City
in the spring of 1866. He began the ])ractice of law with his ])rother,
Luther C. Slavens, who is a prominent attorney here and an ex-circuit judge.
For seven years he continued in active practice of his profession and then
turned his attention to the packing business, becoming one of the first l)eef
and pork packers of Kansas City, thus being a pioneer in the enterprise
which is today an important source of income of Kansas City and this por-
tion of the west. In 1867 he was elected city treasurer and served for one
year, while in the spring of 1868 he formed a partnership with E. W. Pat-
tison and William Epperson for the purpose of engaging in the beef and
pork packing Ijusine.'^s. They built a large stone house which is still standing
in AV("<t Kansas City and in the fall of that year thoy ]-)ackod forty-five Inm-

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 129

dred head of cattle, which was the beginning of the hxrge beef packing busi-
ness for which Kansas City has become celebrated. The following year Mr.
Slavens became associated in the packing business in Kansas City, Missouri,
With J. C. Ferguson and other well known men of Indianapolis and built
a. large brick packing-house, carrying on the business for ten years, during
which time they annually packed thirteen thousand beef cattle and forty
thousand hogs, sending their output to all parts of the world. He devoted
his attention to the business until his retirement, the industry constantly
growing in volume and importance and yielding a large annual revenue to
the proprietors. For a few years prior to his death- he lived retired, having
suffered a stroke of paralysis. He was also interested in real estate and
owned considerable city property.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Slavens were born eight children, of whom seven
are yet living, namely: James M., who is a traveling salesman for the Moore
Chemical & Manufacturing Company of Kansas' City, making his home
at No. 3737 Genesee street; Hiram C, who resides in New York city;
Luther C, who makes his home in Los Angeles, California; Leander P., of
Boston, Massachusetts; and a daughter who makes her home in Kansas City;
Carl C. who at one time was engaged in the drug business in Kansas City
but now makes his home in South Dakota; and Mrs. Clifford Jenkins,
whose husband is one of the most prominent merchants of Kansas City.

The death of the husband and father occurred February 10, 1905.
Kansas City had come to know and honor him because of his activity and
enterprise in business, his unquestioned loyalty to the public good and the
sterling traits which he manifested in his social relations. In politics he
was an earnest republican, taking an active, interest in the party and its
work. He was not only called to the office of city treasurer during the early
years of his residence here, but in 1877 was elected mayor of Kansas City
and for one year served as mayor of Westport, which is now a part of the
city. He was opposed to anything like misrule in municipal affairs and
stood for progress and improvement, regarding a public office as a public
trust. Fraternally he was connected with the Masons and with the Good
Templars, the latter association indicating his attitude on the temperanc?
question. Both he and his wife were pioneer members of the Grand Avenue
IVIethodist Episcopal church, in the work of which they took an active part.

Mr. Slavens was a lay delegate to the general conference of the church
held in Baltimore in 1876. His position was never an equivocal one and his
influence was always found on the side of right, justice, truth and advancement.
In his public service he looked beyond the needs and interests of the mo-
ment to the exigencies and possibilities of the future and labored not for
the clav alone but for the succeeding vears as well. His earlv training as a
lawyer proved an element in his later success in other ways, for the analytical,
intuitive trend of mind which he had cultivated enabled him to readily
understand a situation and place a correct value upon his opportunities.
His business career was marked by steady progress and by the achievement
of most honorable success. He had a very wide and extensive acquaintance
among the prominent pioneer families and his memory is yet enshrined

130 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

in the hearts of all -who knew him. i\Irs. Slavens has until a recent date
resided at the old home at No. 3016 Oak street, which she still owns, to-
gether with other property which she rents. She is now residing at No.
4423 Jefferson street. She came to Kansas City wdth her husband in tlie
early years of their married life and has since made her home here, having
a large circle of friends in the city.

LEMUEL CROSBY.

I.emuel Crosby, engaged in the contracting business in Kansas City lor
the past quarter of a century or more, was born in Nova Scotia, May 10,
1846. He resided in Canada for ten years and then accompanied his par-
ents on their removal to Minneaj)olis, where the succeeding seven years oi
his life were passed. In 1862, when a youth of but sixteen years, he
offered his services to his country in defense of the Union and was assigned
to duty Avith Company G, Tenth Minnesota Infantry, with which he served
for three years, being mustered out in August, 1865. He had all of the
experiences of camp life, participating in some hotly contested battles, tak-
ing part in long, hard marches and again doing duty on the lonely picket
line. He was in the campaigns against General Price and also in the en-
gagements against Hood at Nashville. He likewise assisted in the capture
of Spanish Fort at Mobile Llarbor, and in his military service traveled thou-
sands of miles throughout the South.

When the war was over Mr. Crosby returned to the North and after-
ward engaged in railroad contracting until 1876, when he turned his atten-
tion to general cai-pentering. In 1879 he went to Kansas where, secur-
ing land, he began farming, following that pursuit for several years. He
settled on a claim, for Kansas was at that time a frontier district and much
of the land was unclaimed and uncultivated. With characteristic energy
he begiui the development of a farm Ijut was compelled to leave the state
on account of the drouth which caused a faihu'e of crops.

Removing from Phillips county, Kansas, to Kansas City in August,
1880, Mr. Crosby here followed carpentering for a time and then began
contracting, Avith which line of business he has been connected foi- more
than twenty-five years. To his credit stand several of tlie prominent business
blocks and residences of the city, including the Arlington block, a large
warehouse for the Townley Metal Company, the Townley residence on
Gladstone boulevard, the home of Major Beahim on Thirtieth and Troost,
the home of David Benjamin on Thirty-sixth and McGee, and many others
equally fine. His son, J. E. Crosby, is associated with him in business, the
partnership having existed for the past ten years. The firm have a large
business outside of Kansas City, many of their patrons being in Kansas and
Oklahoma.

On the 28th of October, 1871, Mr. Crosby was married to Miss May T.
Goll, of Keokuk. Towa, who was there born in 1855. She was educated

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 131

in the public schools of Marion, Iowa, and her father was Malcolm Goll, a
pilot on the Mississippi river in early days. Both he and his wife, however,
are now deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Crosby reside at No. 4241 Harrison street,
Avhere he owns a beautiful residence, w^hich he erected. Their children are
James Edgar and Jessie May. The son was born at Marion, Iowa, March
14, 1873, and was educated in the public schools of Kansas City, being
graduated with the class of 1892. He afterward pursued a post graduate
course, in the high school of Kansas City, in 1893, and during the two
succeeding years attended the Kansas State University at Lawrence.
For ten years he has been associated with his father in business and
the firm of Crosby & Son is a prominent one in building circles. On
the 12th of September, 1898, he married Alice M. Boswell, at Sweet Springs,
Missouri, who was born there, October 16, 1875. Her father, F. M. Boswell,
is a carpenter now living in Kansas City. Unto this marriage have been
born two sons: James Edgar, whose birth occurred at Sweet Springs, Sep-
tember 25, 1899; and Harry Lemuel, born in Kansas City, October 5, 1901.
The family home is a beautiful dwelling at 4616 Virginia avenue, which
was built by J. E. Crosby. The daughter, Jessie May Crosby, born in Kan-
sas City, August 2, 1891, was a pupil in the public schools here and after-
ward attended Central College at Lexington, Missouri. She is now at home
with her parents.

Mr. Crosby has made a creditable record as a business man who, though
he has faced obstacles and difficulties has overcome these by determined pur-
X)ose and unfaltering industry and is today one of the substantial residents
of the community. In citizenship he is public-spirited, manifesting the
same loyalty to his country which he displayed on southern battlefields.

SEBASTIAN GARDNER.

In a record of the business development of Kansas City the name of
Sebastian Gardner figures prominently, as he was the first hardware merchant
here. Dating his arrival from 1866, he was throughout the remainder of his
life a factor in the commercial progress of the city, contributing through his
enterprise and progressiveness to the general development as w^ell as to indi-
vidual success. His birth occurred in Cincinnati, Ohio, June 17, 1841. His
parents there resided during the greater part of their lives, the father being
connected with the iron industry, and both he and his wife passed away in
Cincinnati.

Sebastian Gardner in his boyhood days was a pupil in the public schools
and also attended private Catholic schools of Cincinnati. When a youth of
fifteen he started out in life on his own account as a clerk in a hardware store
owned by Tyler Davidson, one of the pioneer merchants in that line in Cin-
cinnati. That he proved himself willing, capable and energetic is indicated
by the fact that he remained in that employ for seven or eight years. About
the clo.se of the Civil war he left Ohio and went to the south, settling in

132 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Natchez, Mississippi, where he established a hardware business on his own
account, conducting the store for two years.

In May, 18G6, Mr. Gardner came to Kansa.s City and opened the first re-
tail hardware establishment here, constantly increasing his stock in order to
meet the demands of a growing population. From the beginning the new enter-
prise prospered. For several years he was associated in business with Mr.
Mullett, who finally sold out to John Calvin Boyd, who is still a resident of
the city, making his home on Armour boulevard, and is engaged in the real
estate business. The partnership continued for five years, after which Mr.
Gardner purchased Mr. Boyd's interest and successfully conducted business
here for over forty years, his store being located at No. 542 Main street. He
always carried a large and well selected line of goods, anticipating the wants
of the public and gaining a liberal patronage by straightforward methods and
mdefatigable energy.

Mr. Gardner was married in Kansas Citv to Miss Louise M. Alms, also a
native of Cincinnati and a representative of one of the pioneer families here,
her parents being Herman F. and Margaret (Dahme) Alms, who were born in
Germany but came to the United States in early life, settling in Cincinnati,
where Mr. Alms engaged in the hotel business until 1866. He then removed
to Kansas City, where he established a general mercantile enterprise at the
corner of Fourteenth street and Grand avenue, continuing in business there
until his death in 1871. Mrs. Alms afterward made her homo with Mr. and
Mrs. Gardner until her demise in 1896.

The death of Mr. Gardner occurred February 11, 1901, after he had
suffered from ill health for several years. In politics he was independent,
always supporting the men whom he regarded as best qualified for office. He
had no desire for political i:)referment, as his time and energies were concen-
trated upon the development of his business affairs, which reached extensive
proportions as the years passed by. The house ever sustained an unassailable
reputation for commercial integrity and year l)y year ]\Ir. Gardner added to
his financial resources until he became a man of afiluence. For five years fol-
lowing his death Mrs. Gardner carried on the business as sole owner and then
in 1906 sold out. She is Avell known here, having many friends, and is the
owner of a large and beautiful home at No. 702 East Fourteenth street, at the
corner of Holmes street, which was purchased by Mr. Gardner more than
twenty years ago.

JOHN A. ROBINSON.

John A. Robinson, wlm l)ecamc a resident of Kansas City in 1883,
was engaged in the grain trade hero fi'om 188." until bis death in 1902, and
the qualities which ho manifo.^tod as a representative of connnorcial inter-
ests entitle him to mention witli tlio representative men of tliis city. He
was born in Now Yoi-k city. .Tiil\- 20. 1847. Hi- fatluM- was a ]^apor-box
manufacturer there and l)eeaiiie a verv well-to-do man. but died when his

JOHN A. EOBINSON.

h'Ui.. ... . , . .. L' : ARY

ASTOR. LENOX

TI LD E r-J FC^ . ; fv' IV ■ T ION?;

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 135

son was a young man, while the mother passed away when he was six years
of age.

John A. Robinson attended some of the best schools of New York city
and at the age of sixteen was qualified for entrance to Columbia College but
decided not to pursue his studies further but instead to enter business life
with his father. He becamo his father's assistant in the office, where he
.remained for a few years and after his father's death made his way to the
west and south, living at different times in various cities, where he was
engaged in business. He finally took up his abode in Chicago, where he
conducted business interests for a few years, after which he returned to New
York city, where he resided until 1883. On account of his health he again
came to the middle west, making his Avay direct to Kansas City.

Wishing to thoroughly acquaint himself with the grain trade that he
might profitably engage in that line of business, he here accepted a posi-
tion as bookkeeper for a Mr. Merritt, a grain merchant. After being with
him for a short time Mr. Robinson later served as bookkeeper for other
houses until 1885, when he felt his knowledge of the business justified his
active connection with the trade as a grain merchant. He then formed a
partnership with H. F. Hall and others, under the firm style of A. J.. Poor
& Company, and they engaged in the grain business until July, 1886, w^hen
Mr. Robinson and Mr. Hall purchased the interest of the other members
of the firm and continued the business alone until the death of Mr. Robin-
son. From the beginning the enterprise proved successful and they annu-
ally handled large quantities of grain, making extensive shipments and
profitable sales. They had offices in the board of trade building and the
business has since the death of Mr. Robinson been continued, the firm being
now known as the Hall-Baker Grain Company.

i\Ir. Robinson was married in the east, in 1885, to Miss Hannah E.
Hogan, a native of New York city, and a daughter of Roderick Hogan, a
manufacturer of New York city during the greater part of his life. He was
ver\' successful and following his retirement he spent his remaining days at
his home in Mount Vernon, New York. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Robinson were
born four children; Graham, now twenty-one years- of age, and a graduate
of the Yale University, makes his home with his mother but at the present
writing, in 1908, is in Texas, learning the lumber business with the pur-
pose of devoting his time and energies to that department of trade. Ara-
bella is a student in Wellesley College. John H. and Elizabeth are attend-
ing school in Kansas City. The mother is giving to her children excellent
educational advantages, realizing the value of this as a preparation for life.

The death of the husband and father occurred November 23, 1902. In
the previous year his health failed and he traveled quite extensively, hoping to
be benefited thereby, but without avail. He gave his political .support to the re-
publican party at the polls but was not an active worker in its ranks and never
an office seeker. In the east he belonged to a number of leading clubs and soci-
eties in New York city and in Kansas City held membership in the Country
Club. Both he and his wife are consistent members and generous support-
ers of the First Presbyterian church here. In 1899 Mr. Robinson pur-

136 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

chased a handsome residence at No. 600 East Thirty-sixth street, where his
widow now resides. He Avas recognized as one of the prominent and pros-
perous business men here and gained many friends who recognize and
appreciate his many sterhng traits of character. Successful in business, his
path was never strewn with the wreck of other men's fortunes but was
carved out in harmony with the mo.st honorable principles.

CLARENCE JAMES FLETCHER.

Clarence James Fletcher, late vice president and secretary of the C. J.
Fletcher Grocery Company of Kansas City, w^as born in Toronto, Canada,
April 9, 1863. His father, Thomas A. Fletcher, was a descendant of the
famous English poet of that name. He came from England to America before
the day of steamboat navigation and located in Toronto. In 1870 he became
a resident of St. Joseph, Missouri, where he Avas engaged in the coal business
until his death. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Caroline Brown and
was a native of Ohio, is also now deceased.

Accompanying his parents on their removal to St. Joseph when but seven
years of age, Clarence James Fletcher was educated in the public schools of
that city and w^hen only thirteen years of age put aside his text-books to enter
business life, becoming an employe of the Townsend-Wyatt Dry Goods Com-
pany of St. Joseph. Mr. Townsend w-as also interested in the Sommer-
Richardson Cracker Company of St. Joseph, now a branch of the National
Biscuit Company. After seven years' service with the dry-goods company
Mr. Fletcher was transferred to the other company to look after Mr. Town-
send's interests there and so continued until 1886. He was thus for ten years
in the employ of one man, his capability and trustworthiness winning him
recognition in successive promotions until in 1886, when he resigned with the
intention of establishing an independent business. In that year he went to
Wichita, Kansas, whore he established a grocery business, conducting two
stores until 1898. On the 31st of August of the latter year he arrived in Kan-
sas City and established the Fletcher Candy Company, now the Fletcher Con-
fectionery Company. He was active in its successful management until Janu-
ary, 1905, when he disposed of his holdings in that company and jDurchased
an interest in the R. II. Williams Grocery Company, of which he became vice
president and secretary. The niiiiio was then changed to the C. J. Fletcher
Grocery Company and from that time until his death Mr. Fletcher gave un-
divided attention to the management of this business, which is today one of
the largest retail grocery enterprises of the city, doing business at Nos. 1114-16
Grand avenue. He also established six branch stores and thus conducted a
very extensive business but disposed of two of these shortly prior to his demise.
Mr. Fletcher was very prominent in business circles and was highly esteemed
as a man (tf unsullied reputation based upon his integrity and marked ability.
He attained a success unusual for a man of his years, for he was yet in the

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 137

prime of life when he passed away on the loth of September, 1907, at the age
of forty-four, his death resulting after a week's illness of peritonitis.

Mr. Fletcher had been married on the 8th of October, 1884, to Miss Carrie
Hastings, who was then a student in the University of Kansas at Lawrence,
in which city the wedding ceremony w^as performed. Mrs. Fletcher is a daugh-
ter of Samuel Hastings, a prominent grain merchant of Fairfield, Iowa, and
an early settler of that place, having removed there from Ohio when a young
man. Mr. Fletcher was a member of the First Church of Christ, to which
Mrs. Fletcher still belongs. He was survived by his widow and also two
brothers, Fred and Arthur Fletcher, wdio are residents of Chicago.

Such in brief was the life record of Clarence James Fletcher but those
who knew him recognized him as more than a sucessful business man — a man
who thoroughly enjoyed home life and took great pleasure in the society of
his family and friends. He was always courteous, kindly and affable and
those who knew him personally had for him warm regard. Possessed of much
natural ability, his success in business from the beginning of his residence in
Kansas City was uniform and rapid. Starting out for himself at an early
age, he quickly developed self-reliance and an independence of character which
were strong factors in his later prosperity. His death therefore was the oc-
casion of deep and widespread regret: among his contemporaries in business
life because of the respect which they entertained for his ability and integrity ;
in the city because he was loyal to the interests promoted for public welfare;
and in social life because he possessed those traits of character which awaken
strong friendship and kindly esteem.

SMITH D. WOODS.

Among those who by reason of the i:)Ossession of some particular traits
of character, or the accomplishment of certain tasks, have advanced beyond
their fellowmen into that class who are termed the prominent citizens of a
community, was numbered Smith D. AVoods, who figured in Kansas City as a
capitalist and successful merchant. He w^as also mayor of the city and his
influence upon the public life was always along lines of improvement and
advancement. Born upon a farm in Indiana not far from the Ohio state line,
December 2, 1830, he was a son of Samuel and Mary (Carroll) Woods, the
latter a representative of a prominent old Carroll family of Maryland. The
father was a farmer throughout his entire life, carrying on agricultual pur-
suits in Indiana to the time of his death, which occurred when his son, Smith,
was but ten years of age.

The boy was then reared in the state of his nativity by his elder brother,
who also bore the name of Samuel Woods, and who was a West Point graduate,
serving in the Mexican war as aide-de-camp to General Winfield Scott. He
acquired a good, practical English education in the public schools and remained
with his brother until 1858, when he came to the west, becoming one of the
early residents of Leavenworth, Kansas, where as a pioneer merchant he

138 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

formed a partnership with William Abernathy and opened a furniture store,
where they successfully conducted business until 1870, when Mr. Woods dis-
posed of his interest there and removed to Kansas City. Here he formed a
partnership in the furniture business with Colonel J. L. Abernathy and carried
on commercial pursuits in that line for eight years. He then sold his interest
to his partner and the Abernathy Furniture Company, which w^as then organ-
ized, is today in control of one of the best furniture stores of the city. Mr.
Woods retired from that field of activity with the intention of putting aside
business cares altogether, but indolence and idleness w^ere utterly foreign to
his nature and he found pleasure in the supervision of his investments. He
w^as interested in mining stock in Kansas and was also the owner of much
valuable real estate in Kansas City. He was, however, no longer bound down
by the ties of commercial life, but found leisure for those pursuits which con-
tributed to his welfare and happiness.

In 1857 Mr. Woods was married in Richmond, Indiana, to ]\Iiss Frances
Landon, wdio was born near Burlington, Vermont, was of English lineage and
a daughter of L. E. Landon, a member of a very prominent family of the
New England states. Her father always made his home in Vermont and
Massachusetts and through the careful conduct of his business interests be-
came very wealthy, so that he lived retired in his later years. He died in ^lassa-
chusetts when Mrs. Woods was but fourteen years of age. The year follow-
ing their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Woods removed to Leavenworth, Kansas, and
her sister, Miss Louise Landon, went there to live w'ith them, but soon after-
ward she made the acquaintance of David J. Brewer, then a young attorney
but now a justice of the supreme court of the United States, and to him she
gave her hand in marriage. The w^armest attachment always existed between
the Brewer and the Woods families and in their frequent visits to Washing-
ton Mr. and Mrs. Woods formed the acquaintance of many of the distinguished
statesmen of the country, including President Benjamin Harrison, wlio was
a classmate of Mr. Woods. He was also a personal friend of George W. Julian
and Ex-Governor L. P. Morton.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Woods were born two children, but Ella died in
Leavenworth, Kansas, in 1865. The other daughter, Mary L., is now the only
surviving member of the family. The father's death occurred December 28,
1888, while Mrs. Woods made her home in Kansas City until her own demise
on the 2d of December, 1907. She was a woman of charming personality and
many social characteristics, who was widely and favoral)ly known in Kansas
City. She became a pioneer member of Grace Episcopal church and was very
devoted to the church throughout her remaining days.

Mr. AVoods figured prominently and actively in political circles in Kansas
City as a leader of tlic democratic party and in 1874 was elected mayor, which
position he filled for two years. He was a nieniljcr of the Masonic fraternity
and attained the Knights Templar degree. He was the friend of every pioneer
and |))ominent business man of Kansas City and was well known throughout
the state. His business affairs were so capably tnanag('(l that he attained
wealth and his methods were .so honorable tliat the most envious could not
grudge him his success. He left tlie impress of liis individuality upon pu1)lic

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 139

life, upon the welfare of the city, upon its commercial development and also
upon those with whom he came in contact. He was a man of strong and
forceful character, who placed a correct valuation upon life and its opportuni-
ties and his personal worth was indicated by the fact that many distinguished
men were glad to call him friend. ^liss Mary L. AVoods occupies the old family
residence, which is a beautiful home at No. 1720 Penn street. When her
parents came to Kansas City this district was known as Cook's pasture, but it
is now in the center of a residence portion adorned with many palatial homes.

JUDGE WILLARD PREBLE HALL.

Judge Willard Preble Hall, widely recognized as one of the most dis-
tinguished lawyers of Missouri and one of the active forces in democratic
politics, has exerted an influence that has been as beneficial as it is far-
reaching. He is accounted the peer of the best thinking men of the age and
may well be classed with Kansas City's most distinguished citizens.

He was born September 19, 1851, at St. Joseph, Missouri, his father
being Governor Willard P. Hall, of Missouri. The ancestral history can be
traced back to the year 1634, when a widow and several sons settled at Med-
ford, Massachusetts. From one son, who married Majorie Davis, a niece of
Simon Willard, Judge Hall is descended. The name Willard has been
given to many other descendants in different generations. The great-grand-
father, Stephen Hall, who was a tutor at Harvard, wedded Mary Holt, a
widow and a daughter of Deacon Cotton, of Portland, Maine, where they
lived subsequent to their marriage. His son, John Hall, was a mechanic
and inventor and for many years was superintendent of the government
armory at Harper's Ferry. Being a government employe, the government
would issue him no patents, although he brought forth a number of valu-
able inventions, one of which. Hall's carbine, was the first breech-loading
gun placed upon the market. John Hall was united in marriage to Statira
Preble, of Portland, Maine, a daughter of Isaiah Preble and a sister of Wil-
liam Pitt Preble.

Willard Preble Hall, son of John Hall and father of Judge Hall, was
a graduate of Yale University of the class of 1839 and in 1840 became a
resident of Missouri, settling in Randolph county. He became one of the
most distinguished and prominent men of the state and became war gover-
nor of the state in 1864 upon the death of Governor Gamball. He wedded
Anne Richardson, a daughter of Major W. P. Richardson, w^ho came from
Kentucky late in the thirties and was a noted whig politician, at one time
serving as Indian agent at a post in Kansas. Unto Governor and Mr.s. Hall
were born four children, three sons and one daughter.

Entering the public schools of his native city, Willard P. Hall, Jr.,
passed through successive grades until he had completed the high school
course and later he spent three years in Yale University. His law studies
were i)ursued in the office and under the direetion of his di-tinguished

140 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

father and in 1872 lie was admitted to the bar. His first partnership was
with Judge O. M. Spencer and later the adnhssion of H. K. White to the
firm led to the adoption of the firm style of White, Spencer & Hall. Having
located for practice in St. Joseph, he Avas elected city attorney there in 1876
and in 1878 was chosen by popular suffrage to the ofhce of prosecuting attorney
of Buchanan county. From 1885 until 1889 he was judge of the Kansas City
court of appeals, and in the latter year the Master of Arts degree was conferred
upon him by Yale University in recognition of the excellent work which he
had done in the field of his chosen profession. Judge Hall has argued many
cases and lost but few. No one better knows the necessity for thorough prep-
aration and no one more industriously prepares his cases than he. His course
in the courtroom is characterized by a calmness and dignity that indicate re-
serve strength. His handling of his case is always full, comprehensive and
accurate; his analysis of the facts is clear and exhaustive; he sees without
effort the relation and dependence of the facts, and so groups them as to
enable him to throw their combined force upon the point they tend to prove.
His opinions while on the bench showed great research, industry and care and
challenged the approval of, and commended themselves to the bench and
the bar.

On the 22d of June, 1876, Judge Hall was married in Philadelphia to
Miss Isabel Fry Alrich, a daughter of William T. Alrich, of DelaAvare, whose
family came from Holland to America while this country was still one of the
colonial possessions of Great Britain. They had three children, of wdiom two
are living, Anne Richardson and Preble Hall.

GEORGE H. KAH:\IANN.

George H. Kahmann, senior member of the firm of Kallmann & Mc-
Murry, prominent contractors of Kansas City, Avas l)orn in St. Louis. Mis-
souri, September 18, 1854. His father, Christo|)her H. Kahmann, removed
soon afterward to Franklin county, Missouri, with his family, and there
engaged in llio pork-packing business for tweiily-fivc years. His memory is
yet cherished as that of one of Washington's leading citizens, Avhose business
enterprise and devotion In llic ])ublic good were the chief elements. in the city's
growth and progrCvSs. He wedded Mary Mense Uhlenbrock, Avho was born
on a sailing vessel en route to .\merica from Hanover. Germany, in 1835.
Her father, whose family name was Mense. married the heir to the estate of
T'hlenbrock, an old German domain, and according to the law of that coun-
try, assumed the name nf the estate as his surname.

George H. Kahinaini was ibe cldcsl in a family of eight children, six of
whom reached adult years, wliilc five of llic numlicr are still li\ing. Guy F.
Kahmann. llic oldest, is seciclary and Irensnrer of the PI. Tibbe & Son Manu-
facturing Company, manufacturers of the Mi.'^sonri meerschaum corn cob
pi])es at Washington. Missom'i. Joseph V. Kahmann is special agem and
adjuster for Ihe Home Insni'ance Company at Kansa- City. ^Tr^. Charles

GEORGE H. KAHMANN.

ASTOB. LENOX
•riLD):N K( ■•! S.-TTONS

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 143

I. Wynne, formerly of St. Louis, and Mrs. John B. Busch, are both residing
at the old home in AVashington, Missouri.

George H. Kallmann was educated in the parish schools of Wa^shington,
Missouri, and spent two years at Notre Dame University, after which he
entered the Washington Savings Bank as assistant cashier, which position he
held for three years. He then went to St. Louis and accepted a clerical posi-
tion in a wholesale mercantile house, but upon the death of his mother, in
1874, he returned to Washington to look after his father's interests, while his
father made a trip to Europe. In 1879 Mr. Kallmann purchased a controlling
interest in the business of the firm of H. Tibbe & Son, who had just taken
out a patent for the manufacure of corn cob pipes, after which he devoted his
attention entirely to the establishment of the business. He thus laid the
foundation of an enterprise that has since grown to vast proportions and has
in the past thirty years paid its stockholders a quarter of a million dollars
in dividends.

On the 12th of May, 1881, Mr. Kahmann was married to Miss Mary S.
Hopkins, a daughter of H. S. Hopkins, president of the H. S. Hopkins Bridge
Company, a well known bridge contracting firm of St. Louis. A year later
Mr. Kahmann became a member of that firm, thus extending the scope of his
activity.

In 1885 he placed his brother, Guy F. Kallmann, in charge of the corn
cob pipe business at Washington, and became actively engaged in bridge
work, taking charge of the construction of the substmcture of a bridge on
the Louisville Southern Railroad at Tyrone, Kentucky, near Lawrenceburg.
The Hopkins Bridge Company having secured the contract for the Winner
bridge over the Missouri river at Kansas City, Mr. Kahmann came here in
1889 to take charge of its construction, and, bringing his family with him,
has since made this city his home. Since his arrival he has been continually
engaged in general railroad and bridge contracting, making a specialty of
pneumatic work and deep and difficult foundations, for which construction
the company is equipped with one of the largest plants in the west. They
have to their credit the substructure of important bridges on nearly every rail-
way system in the west and south, among which are all the bridges on the
Choctaw, Oklahoma & Gulf Railroad, including the bridge at Little Rock,
Arkansas; the first bridge constructed over the Red river on the Rock Island
Railroad ; the bridge over the Alabama river near Montgomery on the Mobile
& Ohio Railroad ; the Maple Leaf bridge at Kansas City ; and the substructure
of the Sixth street viaduct over the Kaw river at Kansas City. They are
now engaged in building a bridge over the Atchafalaya river near Melville,
Louisiana, on the New Orleans branch of the Frisco system.

Mr. Kahmann has been very successful in all his enterprises, and his
name is widely and favorably known in the business world in which he has
been engaged, and is highly respected in social circles. He has large real-
estate holdings in Kansas City, and takes a lively interest in the welfare and
advancement of the city. Fraternally he is connected with the Knights of
Columbus and socially with the Elm Ridge Club. In politics he is a demo-
crat, but not active, and he is a member of the Roman Catholic church.

144 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Mr. Ivahmanii has a family of four children : Nathalie M., at home ; C.
Henry, who is with the Rudd-McQueeny Insurance Company; George H.,
who is with the Central National Bank; and Karl G., at school. Mr. Kall-
mann is a man of genial, social nature, but modest and retiring in manner.
He is, however, recognized as a public-spirited citizen, charitable in thought
and action. His personality is one which inspires respect and confidence.
He is a man of fine appearance, face and figure being indicative of his active,
well spent life, whereby he has advanced from a comparatively humble place
in the business world to one of distinction and affluence. He has made
steady progress, not by reason of any favoring circumstances or peculiarly
fortunate conditions that have surrounded him, but because he has been
watchful of the opportunities pointing to success, has utilized the chances
that have come to him, and has gained public confidence by unfaltering relia-
bility as well as most excellent workmanship. The firm of which he is now
at the head is today one of the most important in contracting circles in Kan-
sas City and the west.

JOHN C. MERINE.

John C. Merine, who was one of America's most prominent [K)rtrait
artists, became a resident of Kansas City in 1SB9 and here remained to the
time of his demise. A native of Richmond, Indiana, he was born on the
28th of September, 1821, his parents being Charles and Abbie Merine, who
were natives of Maryland. They removed to Richmond, Indiana, during an
early period in its development and in that locality the father followed agri-
cultural pursuits and passed away there at the comparatively early age of
forty-five years. His widow, long surviving him, reached the age of eighty-
seven years.

While spending his boyhood days in his parents' home, John C. ^hM'ine
attended the public schools of Richmond and early gave indication of the
artistic talent which in later years brought him fame and fortune. For (he
development of ]\i< native powers he entered the Cincinnati Art School when
eighteen years of age and studied for several years in that city, being for a
time under the instruction of Insclo AVilliatris. wlioso ])nnorama of the Bible
placed him among the celebrated ])aintcr.< of the world. Ih' was a classmate
of AVinans, Beard and Johnson, all of whom became renowned as arti-ts,
conducting studios in New York city.

On leaving Cincinnati Mr. Merine went to Louisville, Kentucky, wIicit
he opened a studio and entered u])on his life work a.- an artist. In his ]»!•()-
fessional cajiaeity lie visited all of the towns of the state and made |iaintings
of many of Kenlneky's most famous men. lie, however, maintained Iiis
headquarters at Lonisxille, where he condneted his studio for tweh'e years
and during that time painted jiortrait- of Henry Clay; Rev. Alexander-
Camjjbell, tlie foundei' of llie Chi'istian ehincli; Attorney General Harlan,
father of Jn.-tiei' Ilai'lan of the snnrenie eoui't : and ( Jeorge D. Prentice, the

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 145

•
distinguished editor of the Louisville Journal. The character of his work
is indicated by a statement made concerning his portrait of Clay: "It is
certainly the finest painting of this great man. One is forced to imagine
that the man and not the shadow stands before him."

Mr. Merine removed from Louisville to Jacksonville, Illinois, where he
purchased four acres of land, his purpose being to raise fruit thereon that
he might use it as a study from which to paint. Year by year his fame in-
creased until his patronage was drawn from all the territory between New
York and San Francisco, while some of his works are also seen in Europe.
While at Jacksonville he painted portraits of Governors Yates and Oglesby
of Illinois and had commissions from many other prominent people of the
country.

It was while living in Jacksonville that Mr. Merine was married to
Miss Mary A. Clampit, who was a belle of that city. She was born in Jack-
sonville and there acquired her education, being graduated from the Women's
College of that city when twenty-one years of age. Her mother died in
Jacksonville and her father. Rev. Moses Clampit, a minister of the Methodist
Episcopal church, engaged in preaching there until 1849, when he gave
up the active work of the ministry and joined the American Argonauts, who
in 1'S49 wont in search of the golden fleece to California. He invested in
property in the western states and through his speculations became quite
wealthy, but later lost considerable property. In 1857 he settled in Portland,
Oregon, where he lived retired until his death. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Merine
were born two daughters, Minnie E. and Monona. The younger daughter, who
died in 1890 at the age of nineteen years, was a very talented young lady
and a great favorite with her father and a beautiful painting which he made
of her now adorns the mother's home. Minnie E., residing with her mother,
is a fine pianist and also plays the pipe organ. She was graduated on the
completion of a course in music at the New England Conservatory, and is
very prominent in the musical as well as the social circles of Kansas City.

In 1867 Mr. Merine spent eight months in Madison, Wisconsin, and
there his brush and palette were constantly employed. Several of his por-
traiturCvS of the leading men of that state are now to be seen in the Wiscon-
sin capitol, among the most prominent being those of the judges of the su-
preme court. Chief Justice Whitan, General George B. Smith and W. S.
Penney, a noted attorney. When Mr. Merine contemplated a change of resi-
dence in 1869, many of his friends and admirers urged him to locate either
in Chicago or New York, believing that the large cities would prove a better
artistic field, but, attracted toward the rapidly developing metropolis of
western Missouri, he came to Kansas City in that year. Here not only his
previous success attended him but his patronage grew until he became one
of the best known portrait artists of the west. Forming a i^artnership with
his nephew, Mr. Williams, they opened a studio. Later Mr. Merine removed
his studio to Main street near Eighth street and his last studio was in the
Sheidley building. His patrons included not only many of the distinguished
residents of the city but also prominent men throughout the west. He
])ainted altogether twenty-five hundred portrait-; and among those which

146 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

«

adorned his studio at the time of his demise was a noteworthy one of Mrs.
Merine at the time the artist first met her. It portrays her in an old-fashioned
pink gown trimmed with lace and the coloring is particularly good. In his
paintings he was specially skillful in producing effects through shadow. He
was fond of half-tones and subdued coloring. High lights are rare in his
works and he cared far more for quiet scenes than for anything of a broader
and more resplendent style of painting. Every detail, however, was given
attention and he succeeded in portraying some remarkable likenesses in his
I)ortrait work. He always read a spiritual meaning in the clouds, which he
was fond of painting. He claimed in his portrait painting that the features,
faithfully brought out (jn canvas, should mirror the spiritual characteristics
of the man.

Mr. Merine, however, did not paint portraits alone. He made some es-
pecially noteworthy studies of fruit and some beautiful landscapes and
marines are the work of his brush. One of his best landscapes is The Return
From the Hunt, the hunters plodding wearily home through the snow, bend-
ing under the load of game on their backs, the dogs laboring at their sides.
The setting sun, l)ursting through the clouds, glints on the snowy trail. The
sky is streaked with red. A dark background of firs rises on the horizon.
The tints are mostly somber and a sense of weariness pervades the whole
scene. Mr. Merine was able to put on canvas the feelings of sadness that
come with the twilight in a way which appeals to the most careless observer.

It is not a usual thing for high artistic taste and talent to be combined
with keen business sagacity but Mr. Merine possessed both. He displayed
jirescience in his investments in property in Kansas City. Soon after his
arrival he purchased eight acres of timber land on what is now Troost avenue
in the most fashionable district of the city and built a fine residence at No.
2305 Troost avenue, which he occupied for fifteen years, though residing in
that vicinity for twenty years. He afterward removed to Hyde Park and
subsequently to a temporary home on Long Meadow avenue, where his last
days were spent. In ])olitics he was a stalwart republican and in early life
affiliated with the Masonic fraternity. Death came to him on the 'I'Ad of
August, 1896, after an illness of five weeks. He was then seventy-five years
of age. In disposition he was rather retiring but fond of society at his
own home and to his friends was most devoted. Like all who walk through
life, hovrever, on a higher plane, his circle of acquaintances was select rather
than large. Kansas City rejoiced in his honors and his success, was proud
f'f his achievements in the realm of art and to the man they paid the highest
tribute of res])ect. He was a believer in the Swedenborgian faitli and al-
waj^s a most faithful follower of high principles and ideals.

Mrs. Merine and her daughter still reside in Kansas City. Tho latter
is a member of the Christian Science church and both are very ])ri»iiiini'Ml
in cultured societv circles. Thev have recentlv removed to a beautiful lioiiic
at No. 2918 East Twenty-ninth street, the walls of which are adorned In-
many of Mr. Merine's finest canvases. Mrs. Merino has been very active in
club life in the city and president of various organizations of this character.
She and her daughter now hold membership in the New Century Clul). of

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 147

which Mrs. Merine has been president for fourteen years. Several times she
has been a delegate to the general federation of women's clubs. Interested
in all that pertains to literary and esthetic culture she is a patron of the arts
and her influence and labors have done much toward development in these
lines in Kansas City.

COLONEL J. L. ABERNATHY.

Colonel J. L. Abernathy, who in the furniture trade won a measure of
success that gained him rank among the capitalists of Kansas City, where he
took up his abode in 1870, was a native of Warren county, Ohio, born March
20, 1833. His parents always resided in Ohio and in Indiana, the father
following farming for many years in the latter state. The son was a student
in the public schools of Knightstown, Indiana, where he acquired a good edu-
cation and then began in business for himself, establishing a dry goods store
in Rushville, Indiana, where he conducted his enterprise successfully until
1855. Feeling that he would have still better opportunities in the new but
rapidly growing west, he removed to Leavenworth, Kansas, where in part-
nership with S. D. AVoods he established a furniture store in which he engaged
until after the outbreak of the Civil war.

In 1862 he enlisted in a thirty-day company, while afterward he became
captain of the Eighth Kansas Infantry, raising a company for service with
that regiment. Still later he was promoted to the colonelcy of the regiment
and continued in command until 1863, when in the battle of Chickamauga
he became very ill and because of the condition of his health resigned and
returned to his home in Leavenw^orth. He then again became an active factor
in the furniture trade, in which he continued until about 1870, when he
removed to Kansas City. His early identification with the business interests
of this city was as a w^holesale furniture dealer, while later he formed a part-
nership with Mr. Keith, and they engaged in the retail furniture business
for a short time. Mr. Keith eventually sold his interest to Mr. North, who
was associated with Colonel Abernathy in the retail furniture business for a
few years. Later the firm became Duff & Abernathy, an association that was
maintained for several years, when Colonel Abernathy disposed of his interest
to Mr. Repp and the Duff & Repp Furniture Company is still operating at
Nos. 1216-22 Main street. Throughout his commercial career Colonel Aber-
nathy maintained a reputation for undoubted integrity and for energy and
perseverance that constituted the basis of his gratifying prosperity.

In 1859 occurred the marriage of J. L. Abernathy and Miss Elizabeth
Martin, of Leavenworth, Kansas. She was born in Butler county, Ohio, not
far from the birthplace of her husband, her parents being Thomas and Eliza-
beth (Marshall) Martin, both of whom were natives of Ohio but at an early
day they took up their abode in the vicinity of Lafayette, Indiana, where Mr.
Martin engaged in the saddlery business throughout his remaining days.
Both he and his wife died there. Unto ]\Ir. and Mrs. Abernathv were born

148 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

six children: William ^Martin, who died recently leaving a widow who resides
in Kansas City and who in her maidenhood was Fannie McClelland; Walter
L., who is engaged in the fnrniture business in Kansas City and is mentioned
elsewhere in this volume; Frank, who died in early life; Harry T., who is
one of the prominent business men of Kansas City, being cashier of the First
National Bank; Omar, engaged in the furniture business in Leavenworth,
Kansas; and Cora, the wife of Dr. A. G. Hull, a prominent physician of Kan-
sas City.

Colonel Abernathy continued in the furniture business until his death,
which occurred on the 16th of December, 1902. Aside from his interest in
the furniture business he was one of the organizers of the First National Bank
of Kansas City and was made one of its stockholders from the beginning. He
also had financial interests in other business enterprises of Kansas City and
Leavenworth, being a director of the Leavenworth National Bank. He was
mayor of Leavenworth, Kansas, for tw^o terms and also took an active interest
in politic- as a stalwart supporter of the republican party. He belonged to
the Loyal Legion and the Grand Army of the Republic and maintained pleas-
ant relations Avith his old army comrades in this way. He always took great
interest in church work, both he and his wife being members of the Presby-
terian church, while Colonel Abernathy served as elder in the Second
Presbyterian church of this city. In Leavenwortli he was elder in the First
Presbyterian church and was superintendent of the Sunday school in both
places for twenty-three years. Since the demise of her husband, Mrs. Aber-
nathy ]ias become a member of the Central Presbyterian church. She makes
her home in Leavenworth, where she owns much valuable property, l)ut
spends much time with her children in Kansas City and is now with her
daughter. Mrs. Hull, at No. 3610 McGee street.

COLONEL THOIMAS II. SWOPE

If thf historian wvic to attriii]il without extensive preliminary iiicii-
tion to characterize in a single sentence the achievements of Colonel Thonia-
H. Swope, it could peihaps be be.-t dine in the \v(»rd-, ''The splendid suc-
cess of an hr)nest man in \\lio,~e life marked busiu'ess al)ility ami Innnani-
tarianism are well l)alanee(i hu'ces." It is these (joalitie- which lia\'e made
him one of th(> mo.<t respected and valued rc^sident- of Kansas City.

Born in Lincoln connty. Kentneky. on the 21st of Octolier. 1^27. he
was reared in that locality, wliere his ancestors had lived from a date prior
to the signing of tlie Declaration of Inde|)endenee. They were closely
associated with the develo))nient of the -tale and in its ]>nblie schools
Thomas H. Swope ae(|nii'ed hi- early eduealion, whieh was sup})lemented
by .«tudy in Centi'al rniver-ity, tluMi Central College, at Danville. He was
graduated there with the class of 1(S4<S and aftei-ward completed a course at
Yale University by graduation. In the sprinii. of LSoT, then a young man
of thirtv vears. he came to Kansas Citv and has since been a factor in the

THOS. H. SWOPE.

PUB;.IC LIBRARY

ASTOR, LENOX
TILDEN FO"N» TTON^'.

I—

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 151

busines.s activity which has led to the substantial growth, material improve-
jneiit and present commercial standing of Missouri's western metropolis.
Following his arrival here he began making investments in property and
his real-estate dealings soon placed him on the high road to success. While
his operations have been extensive, his path has never been strewn with
the wreck of other men's fortunes. There is no man who questions the
honesty of his methods, for throughout the entire period of his residence
here he has maintained a reputaition for unassailable business integrity. He
would sacrifice his financial interests rather than make a misstatement or
misrepresent a fact in a business deal, and his word has ever been regarded
as good as any bond solemnized by signature or seal.

Thus as the years advanced Thomas Swope acquired a handsome for-
tune, and as his financial resources increased he availed himself of the op-
portunity to use his means in the aid of his fellowmen. On the occasion
of his gift of Swope Park to the city, Senator George Graham Vest said
of him, "'I am not much of a hero worshiper, but I will take off my hat
to such a man, and in this case I am the more gratified because we were
classmates at college. We graduated together at Central College, Kentucky,
in 1848. He was a slender, delicate boy, devoted to study and exceedingly
popular. I remember hLs fainting in the recitation room when reading
an essay, and the loving solicitude of professors and students as we gathered
about him. He had a great respect for the Christian religion. It has gone
with him through life, although he has never connected himself with any
church. I know of many generous acts by him to good people, and one of
his first donations was the gift of one thousand dollars to repair the old
Presbvterian church at Danville, where we listened to orthodox sermons
Avhen college students."

In later years Mr. Swope made a donation of twenty-five thousand dollars
to the same school as a gift for a librar}" building. His private bene-
factions are many, and yet his acts have been so quietly and unostenta-
tiously performed that many of his fellow citizens are not aware of this side
of his nature. Interested always in the welfare of Kansas City, and more
especially in that portion of its population to whom fate seems unkind in
its bestowal of favors, he gave to the city a block of land in Lydia avenue
between Twenty-second and Twenty-third streets, on which has been
erected a commodious hospital for the benefit of orphan children.

More recently he gave to the city the most beautiful tract of over four-
teen hundred acres, called Swope Park. At the time it was worth one hun-
dred and fifty thousand dollars; today it has greatly increased in value and
jis not only the second largest park in the entire country, but is also one
of the mo.<t beautiful. In 1906 an ordinance was passed by the city council
appointing observance of a Thomas H. Swope day as a holiday in all city
departments, and since that time the first Friday in May has been so cel-
ebrated. It has been a matter of intense gratification to Mr. Swope that he
could give to the city, and especially to its poorer residents, this beautiful
park where an outing amid nature's attractions can be enjoyed. In this con-
nection Senator Vest said, ''In these days of greed and selfishness, when

152 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

the whole world is permeated with the feverish pursuit of money, it is re-
freshing to find a millionaire Avho is thinking of humanity and not of
wealth. Tom Swope has made his own fortune and has been compelled to
fight many unscrupulous and designing men, but he has risen above the
SOI did Icve of gain, and has shown himself possessed of the best and highest
motives. Intellectually he has few superiors. The public has never known
his literary taste, his culture, and the love of the good and beautiful. The
world assumes that no man can accumulate wealth without being hard and
selfish, and it is too often the case, but not so Avith Mr. Swope. In these
IDrincely gifts he repays himself with the consciousness of a great unselfish
act."

Mr. Swope has now passed the eighty-first milestone on life's journey.
He maintains his residence in Independence, where amid the honor and
esteem of his fellow citizens he is passing the evening of life. "Without that
quality which leads the individual to greet every one as a valued friend and
thus gain a certain popularity, Mr. Sw^ope nevertheless has the keenest desire
for the welfare and happiness of others and, putting forth practical effort
for good where assistance is most needed, he has been a factor in ameliorat-
ing hard conditions for the unfortunate and supplanting want with comfort.

E. M. AV ALTON.

It has been said that no man has lived in vain W'ho has given to the world
something that is of use to his fellowmen — that under such circumstances
his life may well be termed a success. E. M. Walton therefore justly deserves
to be called a successful man, for as an inventor and manufacturer he is
doing an important work, which is proving not only a source of gratifA'ing
revenue to himself 'but also of substantial benefit to the community. He is
the inventor of the Walton stone machine and is now carrying on business in
the manufacture of concrete stone under the name of the Walton Granolithic
Stone Company.

Born in Meadville, Pcinisylvaiiia, on \hv "ilst of Ahu'ch, 1859, he pur-
sued his education in the public schools there and afterward secured ein])loy-
ment in the lumber camps of Michigan, where he remained until the time of
the great Chicago fire in October, 1871, when he went to that city, where he
was busily engaged in connection with its reconstruction for a period. On his
removal from Chicago to Rockford, Illinois, he became foreman of construc-
tion work for Emerson, Talcott & Company, with whom he continued for four
years. On the expiration of that period he engaged with the Chicago, Burling-
ton & Quincy Railroad as bridge foreman, in which capacity he served for five
years and later bnill the concrete piers for the Illinois Central Railroad across
the Rock river. That contract completed, he went to Nashville, Tennessee,
where he built the plant of the O. I. Lush Manufacturing Company, llie larg-
est screen door factory in the United States. Four years were there passed.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 153

after -which he tore down the plant and removed it to Leeds, Missouri, where
he operated it for three years.

In 1887 Mr. Walton arrived in Kansas City and became actively con-
nected with concrete work. In 1895 he organized the Walton Cement Com-
pany and cond.ucted biisine&s at hi^ own home at No. 2606 Chestnut street, in
the manufacture of stone wdndow sills, door sills and steps, cement walks and
porches. The new^ enterprise proved successful and the growth of his busi-
ness justified his removal to the corner of Eighteenth and Olive streets, Avhere
he continued until about 1903, when he erected an office at No. 2500 East
Eighteenth street and also a factory. He has since been located there and is
now carrying on business under the name of the Walton Granolithic Stone
Company, which was incorporatd in 1904. They do everything in the con-
crete stone building line, both in manufacture and contract building work.
Mr. Walton erected a flat for C. L. Bliss at Tenth and Brooklyn streets, apart-
ments for Judge McDougall at 2437 Troost avenue, the stone building for the
lumber firm of Lee & Lyman, together with much residence work for C. L.
Bliss, E. W. Hays, W. S. Pontius, and many others. All of the building is
done with concrete stone and ever since he came here he has been manufac-
turing a special design of steps which is unequaled for entrance steps to any
kind of a building. He is now also engaged in the manufacture of the cement
burial vault, built after an invention of his own. He has constructed miles
of cement sidewalk in Kansas City, and while he has done an important work
as a manufacturer and contractor, perhaps the greatest work of his life has
been the invention of the Walton stone machine for the manufacture of
cement blocks.

Mr. Walton advocates the principle that the cementitious properties of
Portland cement are vastly superior in the matter of endurance to that element
in nature which holds the atoms together in natural stone, which accounts for
the wonderful durability of the manufactured product. The same element
that binds the atoms together and defies the disintegrating influences of the
atmosphere also protects it against the ravages of fire; five hundred to six
hundred degrees heat will disintegrate granite and marble, eight hundred to
twelve hundred wdll dissolve or separate the particles of all limestones and
sandstones, while it requires twenty-two hundred degrees Fahrenheit to fuse
concrete. Mr. Walton commenced experimenting with cement in 1884 and
later made stone that today is better than when first exposed to the elements.
Concrete being the only infallible building material and well nigh indestructi-
ble, its economy, permanency and practicability stamp it at once as the coming
and practically exclusive material for all classes of construction. Studying
the processes of cement stone making, Mr. Walton gradually evolved the idea
which resulted in the invention of the Walton granolithic stone machine.

He sought to eliminate the objectionable features of the hollow block
and to produce a machine that embodied the valuable features required, and
as the most essential feature of this kind of construction, the same as in brick
or stone, is the making of a waterproof wall, and having clearly demonstrated
that hollow spaces in a block do not prevent but merely diminish the penetra-
tion of water, and that a continuous w^eb, or a continuous horizontal or vertical

154 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

joint conducts moisture from the outer to the inner surface, and that a greater
amount of air space is required to overcome damj^ness in a wall than is gen-
erally supposed, he gave to it his first attention, and the result is a two-piece
wall con.'^tructed with L-shaped block.-^, the L lapping and forming a natural
tie, bonded together with cement mortar (v.hich is impervious to moisture)
and with air space on both sides and ends, which separates the outer and inner
block, and overcomes the penetration of water through capillary action. His
next experiments were directed along lines of producing a block of greatest
carrying strength, and this he found to be a tamped block molded so as to
carry its load with its tamped side up.

Tamping, he found, produces a block of greater density than by pressure,
as under the tamp the particles of sand are driven into the voids and the block
is made more uniformly solid from top to bottom. Under pressure, bridging
takes place, and the direct pressure does not allow for the shifting of the sand
so as to fill in the voids as perfectly. This with the fact that pressure is
always greatest at the top of the block and becomes less in proportion to the
increased thickness, causes the block to be more porous and of unequal solidity
and of uncertain strength. The next feature of importance was sufficient
length, and width blocks for building purposes, as most of the present make
of blocks necessitated the cutting of the blocks, which defaced the stone and
gave cause for dissatisfaction. The Walton machine can be easily and quickly
adjusted to make blocks of four, eight, twelve, sixteen, twenty, twenty-four
and thirty-two inch lengths, three, four and one-half, six and nine inch
heights, ten, twelve and fourteen feet circles, thirty and forty-five degree
angles. Mr. Walton is now conducting a successful and growing business and
well merits the prosperity that he is now enjoying.

In 1881, at Rockford. Illinois, occurred the marriage of E. M. Walton
and Miss Ida Radford. They have one child, Mrs. Edyth Bennett, of Rocky
Ford, Colorado. When twenty-one years of age Mr. Walton joined the Inde-
pendent Order of Odd Fellows at Rockford, Illinois, and has since been loyal
to its teachings. He is also connected with the Modern Woodmen of America,
the Knights of Pythias and Hijaz Temple, No. 19, of the Knights of Khora^-
san, in which he holds the first chair.

LOWELL A. GOODMAN.

Lowell A. Goodman, who is acknowledged an authority concerning the
cultivation of fruit, and so widely acknowledged tb;it he was honored with
the pra-idency of the American Pomological Society, with headquarters at
Kansas City, was l)oni in Micliignn in 1S4."). His father, Alonzo A. Good-
man, a native of ]\Tassachusetts, became a rt'sidenl of Michigan in 1840 and
there turned his attention to general a gi'icnlini'al i)nrsnits and milling,
remaining a resident of the Wolverine state nntil 180."). He then removed
to Kansas City, whei-e be operat.>d in real estate, purchasing and selling

L. A, GOODMAN.

T., . ; . ' "JRK

PUBLIC :.IBHARY

ASTOR, LENOX
TILDfTN F^" 'I i» TIONS

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 157

jDroperty until his death, Avhich occurred in 1893, when he had reached the
advanced age of eighty-one yeans. His wife, who in her maidenhood was
Hannah Reeves, was a native of Ohio.

Reared in Michigan, Lowell A. Goodman pursued a course of civil engi-
neering in the State University at Ann Arbor, completing his studies there
by graduation in 1867. The same year he came to Kansas City as civil engi-
neer for the Kansas City & Fort Scott Railroad Company, and helped lay out
and survey the grade for the construction of the line. He then purchased
sixty acres of land at Fortieth street and Warwick boulevard, in the midst
of which he erected a pleasant residence, while he set out the land to all
kinds of fruit. For twenty years he was engaged in horticultural pursuits
there until the land became very valuable, as the city was built up in that
direction and the property therefore increased greatly in price. He then
laid out his farm in what was known as Grand Avenue Highlands, selling
it for biulding purposes, and it is now adorned with many beautiful homes.

j\Ir. Goodman has never ceased to feel the keenest interest in fruit cul-
ture, nor has he ever ceased to be a student of the science of fruit production.
In fact, he has so continually broadened his knowledge along this line that he
is now regarded as authority upon the subject by many. He planted a large
orchard at Olden, Missouri, and organized the Olden Fruit Company, of How-
ell county, Missouri, Avith Judge J. K. Cravens as president, J. E. Evans as
vice president and L. A. Goodman as secretary and manager. This company
set out twelve hundred trees, and after continuing the enterprise for twelve
years, sold out. INIr. Goodman then organized the Ozark Orchard Company,
at Kansas City, Missouri, and has an orchard in the Ozarks containing twenty-
two hundred acres, to the supervision of Avhich he gives his personal attention.
Of this company J. A. Prescott is president, E. C. AVright secretary, and Mr.
Goodman vice president and manager. This is one of. the most extensive, im-
portant and successful fruit-growing enterprises in the section-^ of the country
in which it is located, and is proving a profitable investment, for fruits of the
finest varieties are there raised and command the highest market prices.

All through the years, Mr. Goodman has studied the needs and require-
ments of different kinds of fruit as to the soil, temperature, moisture and
plant food and the various influences which are detrimental or beneficial to
the trees. His knowledge is most comprehensive and accurate and his promi-
nence as a fruit-raiser has led to his selection for prominent official positions
in this connection. He is now and has been secretary of the Missouri State
Horticultural Society for twenty-five years, and he arranged for, and had
charge of, the fruit exhibits of Missouri at the expositions held in Chicago
in 1893 and in St. Louis in 1904. He is likewise president of the American
Pomological Society, represented by many of the most prominent fruit-grow-
ers of the entire country. This organization is one which has proved of
marked value in disseminating knowledge among fruit-growers and promot-
ing the horticultural interests of the country. Mr. Goodman has done much
to stimulate the ambition and activities of horticulturists and orchardists of
this state, his labors constituting an important element in Missouri's progress
in this crmnection.

158 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

In 1868 Mr. Goodman wa.s married to Miss Emegene Parker, who was
born in ^Michigan. Tliey now have three children: Marie, at home; Mrs.
Fanny Simonds; and Mrs. Josephine Croysdale. Mr. Goodman is a Presby-
terian, holding membership with the Westport Avenue Presbyterian church,
in the work of which he is deeply and helpfully interested in the various
departments of its activity. For thirty years he has been a superintendent
of the Sunday school, and has done much toward systematizing and promot-
ing the work of giving to the young religious instruction as a basis for charac-
ter building. His life is honorable, his actions manly and sincere, while his
own high moral worth is deserving of the highest commendation.

WILLIAM H. CAFFERY.

The success which William H. CaflFery has achieved in the establishment
and conduct of Portland cement factories has been so great as to seem almost
magical and yet there is not a single esoteric phase in his career. On the con-
trary, his position as a leader in this line of business in the west is attributable
directly to his recognition of opportunities that lay before all to develop a new
industry. The secret of his advancement lies in the spirit of the initiative
which he displayed in his broad, enlightened and liberal-minded views and
in his recognition of the vast potentialities for development along the specific
lines in which he has operated. His has indeed been an active career, in
which he has accomplished important and far-reaching results, contributing
in no small degree to the expansion and material growth of business interests
ill the west and from which he himself has also derived substantial benefits.

Mr. CaflPery was born in Detroit, Michigan, June 29, 1855. His boyhood
days were spent upon a farm and he acquired his preliminary education in the
country schools, later attending the State University of Michigan at Ann
Arbor. He made his initial step in the business world as a retail hardware
dealer at Pinckney, Michigan, when eighteen years of age, conducting a store
there for three years, after which he sold out and removed to East Saginaw,
Michigan, where, with a brother, John A. Caffery, he established the Caffery
Brothers Wholesale Hardware Company, which has developed into one of the
largest institutions of its kind in the state. For five years W. H. Caffery
remained as its president and manager and then came to Kansas City in 1886.

For two years after hi- arrival here Mr. Caffery engaged in the real-estate
business and on the expiration of that period became a w^holesale dealer in
coal, operating two mines until three years ago, when he organized the Kansas
City Portland Cement Company. The introduction of the use of Portland
cement as a constructive element has been a revolutionizing force in building
operations jiiid the Poillaiid ('ciiiciit iiidiistrics of tbc west are today rivaling
in extent and importance the iiiaiiimoth steel producing interests of the East.
Kansas and Missouri are ])articularly fortunate in having at their command
the jdoducts necessary for the production of the cement, possessing very
superior quality of material in the liinestoiie and rock of this district, which

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 159

requires little or no stripping and when blasted fractures along horizontal
lines. Then, too, fuel is one of the principal items of expense in the manufac-
ture of concrete and Kansas and Missouri seem to have unlimited supplies of
natural ga^, which can be obtained at a practically nominal cost. This renders
the field a specially favorable one for the manufacture of Portland cement and
in addition there has also rapidly developed a large market for the product,
its use coming into almost immediate favor.

The Southern Industrial and Lumber Review, in speaking of Mr. Caf-
fery's connection with this great important industry, said: "His first eft'orts,
as exerted in the promotion of the Kansas City Portland Cement Company,
were attended with extreme difficulties and stern obstacles on every hand, but
he continued undaunted in his puipose. The west knew little or nothing
about concrete manufacture; cared less. The Kansas investor had money for
mining investment, but not even encouragement for anything quite so un-
known and speculative as cement. Stock, bonds, real estate, etc., were securi-
ties highly esteemed by the man from Missouri, but this cement problem was
one of many ramifications, while the fact that it offered seven, eight, ten and-
even twenty per cent immediately outlawed it as a legitimate investment in
the bankers' eyes. So that credit w^as extended the new cement company very
reluctantly indeed, and wise investors were cautioned by financial sages
again.<t taking on any con.^iderable amount of cement stock. In spite of these
misgivings and prejudices, the unflinching determination of Mr. Caffery suc-
ceeded in doing the impossible, hoAvever, and the new cement plant became a
reality and an object of pride to every loyal Missourian.

"Meanwhile, Mr. Cafi^ery was not content to rest on his laurels, but began,
instead, the inception of a new proposition on a much more ambitious scale.
As a result, the Bonner Portland Cement Company, of Bonner Springs, Kan-
sas, was launched with a capitalization of two million dollars. This trans-
pired on the ninth day of March of 1907. Forty days thereafter the pros-
pectus and literature of the new" concern was off the press and the first offering
of stock was made." The story of the success of the Bonner Company is best
told in the words of the Kansas City Post of July 20th, 1907: "Within ninety
days, this company (referring to the Bonner Company) has completed its
organization, practically closed out all of its stock, bought, contracted and paid
for its entire immense equipment of machinery and vigorously entered upon
the construction of its plant. In four months intervening between this writ-
ing and the publication of the excerpt above referred to, the bulk of construc-
tion work on the new Bonner plant has been completed. Aside from the actual
l>uilding of the handsome all concrete office building, together with the com-
pletion of several of the more important buildings, considerable machinery has
already been installed, while more is arriving daily. Mr. Caffery confidently
expects to have the plant in operation not later than January 31st next, and
hopes to be filling orders for 'Bonner Brand' cement during the first week of
February. If these expectations are realized Mr. Caffery will have achieved a
world's record in the act of organizing, financing and building one of the
finest modern cement properties in existence within less than one year's time."
Since the above was written the Bonner Portland Cement Company has placed

160 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

its plant in successful operation and has thus added another immense factory
to tho<e which are furnishing the we-^t with Portland cement.

That Mr. Caffery is a man of marked executive ability, resourceful and
enterprising beyond the average, is not only indicated l)y his succCiSi v.ith
Portland cement, but also by his official connection with various other cor-
porate interests. He is president of the Plomo Mining Company, the general
manager of the Missouri Coal & Mining Company, a director of the Bonner
Springs Oil & Gas Company, a director of the Farmers' State Bank, of Bon-
ner Springs, and a stockholder in the Kansas City Portland Cement Com-
pany and the Federal Mines & Milling Company of Michigan.

Mr. Caffery was married in September, 1883, to Miss Nellie jNIinnis, and
they have one son, Louis R., nineteen years of age. Mr. Caffery is pre-
eminently a business man, who has wrought along constantly broadening
lines of usefulness and activity and stands today as one of the most forceful
factor.-: in industrial circles in the middle west.

J. S. MARTIN.

.1. S. Martin, who at the time of his demise on the 16th of October,
1905, Avas one of the oldest members of the Old Men's Association of Kan-
sas City, attained the age of eighty-seven years. For a long period he avos
ddentified with the interests of Avestern Missouri and because of a wide and
favorable acquaintance his life record cannot fail to prove of interest to
many of the readers of this volume. He was a son of Colonel Amos Martin
of the city of New York, and was born in Owego, Tioga county. New York,
September 14, 1818. Good educationial privileges were provided him in
youth and these he improved with the result that he was well qualified to
take up tlie practical duties of life on attaining his majority. Wlu>n a
young man he began clerking in a store and developed good business ability,
which as the years passed gained him place with men of recognized ])r )iii-
inence and wealth in commercial and industrial circles. He was at the age
of fortv-five vears connccttxl with the reaper and mower factorv in Aul)urn.
New York. He traveled extensively for this firm, into all sections of the
(country and came to Kan.'»as City on business in 1868. Tie wa- sd well
pleased with the growing western city and its prospects that upon his return
to New York he disposed of his interests in the business there and returned
to Kansas City to make his home. He purchased a lot in what wa> tlicu a
cornfield and erected a residence that stands at what is now designated as
No. 1509 Oak .street. Tliere he ui.-idc lii- home for thirty-seven years, or
until ]ii< demise. He became a factor \u l)u.-incs> circles lierc as a local a'i;ent
for f'lnn iin]»lenieiils. in which conneclion he ;i]»|)oiiite(l su])ageuts and
was also traveling collector ;uid adjuster foi- different lirnis. .\s tlie ye.n-s
passed lie built uj) a good ])usiuess in tliese lines and was everywhere known
for his thorough reliability in comuiercial transactions. A few years i)rior

J. S. MARTIN.

■JRK
PUB^[. .JBKARY

ASTOR, LENOX

TILDFN IX •[■ * ■ TIONS

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 163

to his demise, however, he retired from active connection with business.
His life was a long, useful and honorable one and the many with whom he
came in contact in his connnercial career entertained for him high respect
for his integrity as well as energy.

Mr. Martin was married twice. In the state of New York he wedded
Margaret Maning, now deceased, and unto them were born two children:
Lewis, a resident of Los Angeles, California; and Elizabeth, w^ho has passed
away. In 1881 Mr. Martin was married to Miss Adaline C. Chambers, w^ho
came to Kansas City from Ohio in 1868 with her parents, James and Jane
Chambers, both of whom were natives of the Buckeye state. Their removal
to this city was influenced by the fact that they had two sons in business
here and wished to be near them.

Socially Mr. Martin was connected with the Independent Order of Odd
Fiellows and he exercised his right of franchise in support of the men and
measures of the republican party. For thirty years he was a devoted and
faithful member of the Presbyterian church and served as treasurer for
eight years, while in the various departments of church work he took an
active and helpful interest. He assisted in building three different churches
here and did everything in his power to promote the moral development
and progress of the community. He was a typical American in that he was
never too busy to be cordial and never too cordial to be busy. When not
occupied with commercial interests his time was given to affairs connected
with municipal progress. He never regretted his removal to Kansas City
from either a social or financial standpoint, for he found success in business
here and gained many friends whose high regard he cherished. He was a
man of very large acquaintance and was loved and honored by all who
knew him. He regarded his own self-respect and the good will of his fel-
low citizens as infinitely more valuable than wealth, fame or position, and
the sterling qualities which he displayed made his example one well worthy
of emulation. Full of years and honors he passed away — his life span hav-
ing covered eighty-seven years.

FRED C. ADAMS.

Fred C. Adams, a popular republican, well known in political circles,
has since 1901 filled the office of county collector. He was born in Hartford
county, Connecticut, in 1862, and for about a quarter of a century has lived
in Kansas City. Here he entered the employ of the wholesale dry goods firm
of Tootle, Hanna & Company, and when the Kansas City State Bank was
organized in 1888 he became teller. Three years later he was promoted to
the position of assistant cashier and acted in that capacity until his election
to the present office, yet performing the duties of cashier nearly all of the time
during which he was assistant. He still retained stock in the bank when he
severed his connection therewith on the 2d of March, 1901, to enter upon the
duties of county collector, to which office he had been elected and in which he

164 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

has continually served to the present, covering a period of seven years. He
is recognized as one of the, leading members of the republican party in Kansas
City, laboring effectively and earnestly for the welfare of the party and doing
much to shape its policy. To the discharge of his duties he has brought the
same accuracy, fidelity and ability that characterized his service in banking
circles.

GEORGE FREDERICK BLUE.

George Frederick Blue, living retired in Kansas City, was born in the
little village of Pruntytown, in Taylor county. West Virginia, November 5,
1845. The district in which his birth occurred was then a part of Virginia,
and he belonged to one of the well known families of the Old Dominion. He
is connected through ties of blood with Governor Johnson and the Burdette
family, to which John S. Burdette, secretary of state, belonged. He is an
own cousin of Robert Burdette, the celebrated humorist and author; of
Alonzo Johnson, who was a leading lawyer and judge in Virginia, and Mor-
timer Johnson, a Confederate colonel. His parents, Stephen and Ann
(Burdette) Blue, were natives of Culpepper Courthouse. The father owned
a number of slaves and a large plantation of eleven hundred acres. His land
was rich in timber and he turned his attention to the lumber business, cutting
the timber and placing it on the market, after which he devoted his farm to
the production of cattle on an extensive scale.

George Frederick Blue pursued his early education in one of the old-
time subscription schools of the early day, the school being conducted by his
uncle, Stephen Burdette, in a log house. The teacher was more than six
feet tall and capable of inspiring all of his pupils. He made the quill pens
which the pupils used in writing their exercises, while the juice of the poke-
berry served for ink. The little "temple of learning" was built of hewed
logs, and on one side, a log being taken out, the space was filled with glass
and served as a window. Under this was the writing desk, a long board laid
upon pins driven into the wall. The benches were made from poplar trees
and were built around a square, the teacher sitting in the center. The younger
children learned the alphabet, which the teacher wrote on a paddle made
from a board. In his boyhood days Mr. Blue of this review drove cattle two
hundred and seventy miles across the mountains to Baltimore, following the
national pike through Gettysburg. He would put a rope around the lead
steer and walk the entire distance. He left the district school about the time
the war broke out. He saw John Brown on his way to Harper's Ferry and
was a witness of various momentous events which formed the history of that
period.

His people were stalwart supporters of the Confederacy, and his brother,
John Tyler, was a soldier in Early's army. For the first two years of the
war Mr. Blue was largely engaged in driving cattle over the mountains to
Baltimore, but on the lOth of June, 1863, he enlisted for six months' service
in Company C, Fourth West Virginia Cavalry, under Captain James Ar-

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 165

buckle and Colonel John S. Lathrop. He participated in the battle of Bull-
town, West Virginia, with General Fitzhugh Lee's cavalry, and also in a
number of smaller engagements. At the end of the time he was mustered
out but soon reenlisted in Battery H, First West Virginia Artillery, under
Captain J. H. Holmes, of Wheeling, thus serving until the close of the war.
During this enlistment he took part in the engagements at Cumberland, St.
John's Run, Fisher's Hill, W^inchester, Rocky Gap, Petersburg and New
Creek. At the last named he was captured with Colonel Mulligan's battery,
which was widely known as the battery of brass guns. He was then incar-
cerated in Libby prison until General Grant took Richmond, and during that
time he suffered intensely, starvation, vermin and exposure constituting some
of the hardships of southern prison life. He was ever a brave and loyal
soldier, faithfully defending the cause which he espoused and never faltering
in his allegiance to the old flag.

When the war was over Mr. Blue again spent two years in school. In
the meantime a public-school system had been inaugurated and good teachers
secured, Mr. Blue receiving the benefit of instruction from Professor Shoe-
maker, formerly a Hiram College student. He thus qualified for teaching
and for two years followed that profession in Barbour county. West Virginia.
He next entered the service of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad as brakeman
and later was promoted to freight conductor, eventually becoming passenger
conductor. He was retained in the freight and passenger service for thirty-
two years on the Baltimore & Ohio between Grafton, Piedmont and Parkers-
burg, and was with the Lexington & Louisville Short Line for three years,
running between Louisville and Cincinnati.

On the 15th of September, 1876, Mr. Blue arrived in Kansas City, having
previously in that year visited the Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia,
where the attractive display of the western states influenced him to come to
the west. He paid a visit to his cousin, Richard Blue, of Pleasanton, Kansas,
afterward congressman, and on choosing Kansas City as a place of residence
afterward entered the employ of the Santa Fe Railroad Company as passenger
conductor, continuing in that service as a most trusted representative in the
operative department for seventeen years. He afterw^ard spent four years in
the employ of the Kansas City Southern Railroad, on the expiration of which
period he located at Coffeyville, Kansas, where he purchased the Mecca Hotel,
which he conducted for two years. He then sold the property, and, returning
to Kansas City, erected the Burdette flats at No. 3720 Main street. Since that
time he has lived retired, deriving his income from his invested interests. His
success is well merited, for he has worked his own way upward from an
humble position in the business world. Prompted by laudable ambition, he
has put forth earnest effort and his career has been marked by orderly pro-
gression, bringing him to his present enviable financial position.

Mr. Blue has been married twice. In Las Vegas, Mexico, in 1883, he
wedded Miss Mattie E. Smith, a native of Michigan, who died at Fort Madi-
son, Iowa, in 1890, leaving one son, Burdette, who, after attending the public
schools of Kansas City, entered the Kansas University at Lawrence, Kansas,
and was graduated from the law school in June, 1905. He was then admitted

166 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

to the bar and spent one year in the law office of Botsford, Delridge & Young.
He was then admitted to the bar at Bartlesville, Indian Territory, where he
is now practicing law as a partner of Judge Dummel, under the firm style of
Dummel & Blue. In 1891 George F. Blue was again married, at Wabash,
Indiana, his second union being with Miss Inez M. Carpenter, a daughter of
the Rev. L. L. Carpenter, a pastor of the Christian church and active in the
ministry.

Mr. and Mrs. Blue are members of the First Christian church of Kansas
City, and he is also identified with the Benevolent and Protective Order of
Elks and the Masonic fraternity. He is likewise a valued member of Thomas
Post, G. A. R., and thus maintains pleasant relations with his old army com-
rades who fought for the defense of the Union. In politics he has been a life-
long republican, ever loyally advocating the interests of the organization
which has been the party of reform and progress and which was the defense
of the nation during the dark days of the Civil war. Mr. Blue is widely
recognized as a man ever loyal to his honest convictions and fearless in de-
fense of what be believes to be right. This was manifest by his military
service with the Federal troops when the great majority of his kinsmen were
advocates of the Confederacy. None have ever doubted the honesty of his
intention, and his integrity, combined with his diligence and faithfulness,
has constituted the basis of the success which he has enjoyed.

JUDGE WILLIAM BERNARD TEASDALE.

Perhaps no more fitting encomium of the life of Judge William
Bernard Teasdale could be written than the Avords of the poet Pope:

''Statesman, yet a friend to truth ; of soul sincere,
In action faithful and in honor clear;
Who broke no promise, served no private end.
Who gained no title and who lost no friend."

These lines indicate the salient characteristics of a life that was at all times
honorable and upright and actuated by the utmost fidelity to duty, while his
talents and mental qualifications made him the peer of many of the most
distinguished representatives of the Missouri bar.

A native of this state, he was born April 12, 1856, in Potosi, and at the
usual age entered the public schools, mastering the branches of learning
taught in consecutive grades until he qualified for entrance into the St.
Louis University. There, in due course of time he was graduated, and he
supplemented his more specifically literary education for a course in law pre-
paratory to entering upon the active practice of the profession. He began
!to study and ol)tained a degree from the St. Louis Law School in 1877.
For two years following his admi.ssion to the bar he practiced in Potosi but
in 1879 sought a broader and more fruitful field of labor, removing to Kan-

W. B. TEASDALE.

Ti,.. 1 .-■/ '''ORK
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HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 169

sas City, where he opened an office and began practice. Shortly after this
he was appointed assistant prosecuting attorney by William H. Wallace and
although a stalwart democrat, the good record which he made in that office
led to his election to the position of justice of the peace in a district that
was strongly republican. While serving in that capacity he displayed the
strong traits of his character which marked his later career. Aside from
being an interpreter of the law, Judge Teasdale at one period of his life
was associated with the law makers of Missouri, having been elected a mem-
ber of the state senate in 1888, while during his term of service he was a
member of the judiciary committee and the author of the gerrymander bill,
which cut Lafayette county out of the fifth congressional district and made
a separate district of Jackson county.

Continuing in the practice of the law. Judge Teasdale soon secured
a large clientage. He had in an eminent degree that rare ability of saying
in a convincing way the right thing at the right time. His mind was nat-
urally inductive and logical and, with keen powers of analysis, he readily
understood what were the factors that made the complex fabric of his case.
The work of the office was done with the most thorough preparation and
care and thus he was enabled to present his cause in the courts with clear-
ness and force. His preparation always compassed every contingency and
provided for defense as well as for attack. From 1889 to 1899 he was a
member of the law firm of Teasdale, Ingraham & Cowherd. In March, 1901,
a fifth division of the circuit court was created in Jackson county and, hav-
ing received the endorsement of the Bar Association, Mr. Teasdale was ap-
pointed judge by Governor Dockery. The following year he was elected to
the circuit bench on the democratic ticket and continued to serve in that
capacity until his life's labors were ended in death.

A local paper, in commenting upon his last days, said: "For nearly a
year he sat in the circuit court suffering from an affection of the throat and
the attorneys of the bar knew nothing of it Many times he bore intense
pain. There was nothing in his manner to indicate it. He suffered in
silence. His physicians often urged him to take something to ease the pain,
but he refused, saying that a drug would tend to cloud his brain and render
him incapable of properly hearing a case. At length he found he could
not stand the ordeal and sought the aid of the best physicians of New York
city but without relief.

"Judge Teasdale's temperament made him successful on the bench.
He was even tempered and seldom showed any excitement. When he was
first appointed judge of the circuit court he said to an associate judge who
is well known for his judicial temperament : 'If I can emulate your example
I shall be all right. If I can hold my tongue, not talk too much and keep
from losing my head, I shall succeed as a judge.' Judge Teasdale was strict
with the attorneys at his bar, but always fair and impartial. He admitted
an error quickly and corrected it immediately."

His decisions indicated strong mentality, careful analysis, a thorough
knowledge of the law and an unbiased judgment. The capable jurist must
possess broad mindedness which not only comprehends the details of a sit-

170 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

uation quickly but which insures a complete self-control under even the
most exasperating conditions. He, moreover, must possess a well rounded
character, finely balanced mind, and splendid intellectual attainments if he
makes a success in the discharge of his multitudinous delicate duties. That
Judge Teasdale was regarded as such a jurist is an uniformly accepted fact.

In 1883 Judge Teasdale married Miss Lydia Guinotte, a daughter of
Joseph and Aimee Guinotte. who were among the pioneers of our growing
city.

In an editorial comment following his death, which occurred February
13th, 1907, one of the Kansas City papers said: "He was notably hand-
some and of noble presence. He was good to look upon because of his fine,
ruddy strength and his wholesome composure. To sickening pain, to ex-
hausting fatigue and to all the enervation which wasting invalidism can
bring, he set into opposition patience, the power of heroic endurance, the
assertion of high and noble courage and a trust in a power above and be-
yond himself which knew no wavering. Thus passed from life unto death
Judge William B. Teasdale — or would it not be more in accord with the
teachings of that faith which saves and sweetens the world to say that he
passed from death unto life."

JOHN W. JACKSON, M. D.

Dr. John W. Jackson, a man who counted his friends by the thousands
and had no enemies, gained a national reputation as a physician and surgeon,
practicing largely in Kansas City, although demands made upon his pro-
fessional skill called him also to other places. His birth occurred on the 6th
of November, 1834, in Clark county, Maryland, and after acquiring a com-
mon-school education he continued his studies in Charleston University of
West Virginia, where he pursued a regular course. He was a young man of
twenty-five years when, in 1859, he made his way westward to Franklin
county, Missouri, and in the same year took up the study of medicine under
the direction of Doctors George Johnson and J. L. Matthews. Later he con-
tinued his preparation for the profession by becoming a student in the St.
Louis Medical College, from which he was graduated in 1863.

Dr. Jackson located for practice in Labaddie, Misouri, where he re-
mained until the spring of 1864, when, feeling that his first duty was to his
country, he joined the United States army as surgeon of the Forty-eighth
Missouri Volunteers, continuing at the front until the close of the war.
During the last year of his service he was post surgeon at Columbia, Ten-
nessee.

When the country no longer needed his aid Dr. Jackson opened an
office in St. Louis, where he remained until his return to Labaddie, where
he again engaged in practice. As the years passed his knowledge and efficiency
were constantly increased by wide reading, study and experience, yet ambi-
tious to attain a higher degree of efficiency, in 1873 he continued his studies

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 171

in the College of Physicians and Surgeons of New York city, from which he
was graduated with honor in the following year. Missouri has always been
the scene of his professional labor, save for the period spent in the south
during the war. On again locating in this state in 1874 he was appointed
chief surgeon of the Missouri Pacific Railroad. He built up the first railway
hospital system ever established east of the Rocky mountains, and, in fact,
was the founder and promoter of the railway hospital service of the United
States. In 1879 he built the first hospital on the Missouri Pacific Railway at
Washington, Missouri, conducting it successfully until 1881, when his juris-
diction was enlarged so as to embrace the Missouri, Kansas & Texas Railroad,
and the hospital was removed from Washington to Sedalia. In the spring
of 1883 his jurisdiction was again extended, taking in the entire Gould
system except the Iron Mountain division, and in 1884 the entire Wabasl/
system. In - February, 1885, he resigned his position with the Missouri
Pacific and assumed entire charge of the Wabash system. All this time he
enjoyed an extensive private practice and was coming more and more to be
recognized as one of the ablest surgeons of the entire country.

In 1880 Dr. Jackson was chosen to the chair of surgery in the Kansas
City Medical College, but did not remove to Kansas City until 1884. Five
years later he was elected as the first president of the National Railway
Surgeons' Association. He was also honored with the first vice presidency
of the American Medical Society and was president of the Missouri State
Medical Society. At the time of his death he was president of the University
Medical College of Kansas City. To him belongs the honor of building the
splendid Wabash system of railway hospitals, those at Springfield and Dan-
ville, Illinois; Peru, Indiana, and Kansas City being established chiefly
through his instrumentality. He also built the Missouri Pacific Hospital at
Fort Worth, Texas, the finest in the west.

Dr. Jackson was married in Labaddie, Franklin county, Missouri, to
Miss Jennie C. North, a native of that county and a daughter of Febius J. and
Frances (Goode) North, both natives of Virginia. Mr. North removed with
his parents to Franklin county, Missouri, when he was only six years of age.
He was reared on a farm there and resided in that locality throughout his
remaining days, devoting his time and energies to general agricultural pur-
suits, both he and his wife passing away there. The farm has always been
in the family name and is known as the old North homestead. It is now
occupied by a sister of Mrs. Jackson. Two children were born unto Dr. and
Mrs. Jackson, both of whom are physicians and reside with their mother at
2629 Forest avenue. The elder, Dr. Jabez N. Jackson, is one of the leading
surgeons of Kansas City, with ofiicGS at No. 425 Argyle building. He married
Miss Virlea Wayland, of Salisbury, Missouri, and has two children, Virginia
and Margaret. Dr. Walter E. Jackson has offices with his brother in the
Argyle building and both have an extensive practice.

Mrs. Jackson, after her hu-sband's death, remained at her fine home at the
corner of Fifteenth and Broadway until about four years ago, when she
removed to 2629 Forest avenue, where she and her sons now reside. She still
owns the old homestead, which is one of the finest in that part of the city.

172 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

The death of Dr. Jackson occurred March 13, 1890, and was occasioned
by blood poisoning which resulted from an operation that he performed. He
was a member of the Masonic fraternity, in which he had attained high rank,
and was also a member of the Order of Elks. His life, however, was given
to his profession and he attained a preeminent position in the ranks of the
medical and surgical fraternity. His ability was such as to gain him recog-
nition, not only in Kansas City and Missouri, but throughout the country,
and he w^as honored by all for his prominence and for his personal worth.
He was a man of the most kindly spirit as well as high intellectuality, and
he gained the warm and lasting friendship of all with whom he came in
contact.

GEORGE PEAKE.

George Peake, public auditor and expert accountant, as senior partner
of the firm of George Peake & Sons, is not only well known professionally in
Kansas City, but to a large extent throughout the w^est. He was born in
Richmond, Virginia, February 17, 1847. His father was George R. Peake,
whose birth occurred near Fredericksburg, Virginia, September 9, 1807. In
the Old Dominion he followed merchandising until after the outbreak of the
Civil war, when he retired and engaged in farming. In 1871 he came to
Kansas City, after which he lived retired from business life. His death
occurred at Baxter Springs, Kansas, in 1890. In early manhood he gave his
political allegiance to the whig party, but upon its dissolution became a
democrat and was a stanch supporter of the principles of that platform during
much of his life. He married Jane Knox Barclay, who was born in Rich-
mond, Virginia, January 14, 1817, and died at Kansas City in April, 1874.

George Peake was a pupil in the classical school of Roger Martin, Rich-
mond, Virginia, in his boyhood days, or until after the outbreak of the Civil
war, when he responded to the call of the Confederacy for aid. enlisting as
a volunteer in Sturdivant's Battery at Richmond in October, 1862, at the age
of fifteen and one-half years. He served thirty months and spent considerable
time in the trenches at Petersburg, Virginia. There he was wounded by a
Union sharpshooter, the bullet striking him in the right ear. It passed
through a portion of the back part of his skull and was cut out of the back
of his neck. The sharpshooter fired at him three times, but only the last
bullet took effect. Mr. Peake fought in many important battles of the war
and flischargcd h\.< duller with the unflinching loyalty and valor of a true
soldier.

Following the close of hostilities George Peake engaged in farming with
his father for two years. He then came to Kansas City in 1867, borrowing
money with which to pay his transportation. After he had remained here
for a time he became dissatisfied and would have returned home could he
have secured financial aid sufficient to pay his railroad fare. Forced to
remain, however, he began to like the city, and now there is no place quite so
dear to him except his birthplace — Richmond, Virginia. His first position

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY IVb

here was with J. & P. Shannon, then the leading dry goods house of the city,
remaining in their employ one year. He then accepted the position of book-
keeper with Askew, Dubois & Company, wholesale dealers in leather, saddlery
hardware and hides, and he remained with them until 1875, when he went
to St. Joseph, Missouri. There he served as bookkeeper for the wholesale
firm of Nave, McCord & Company for two years. He then returned to
Kansas City, where he remained until 1880, when he went to Hannibal,
Missouri. He was in charge of the business of the Standard Oil Company
at that place, which was a distributing point for the entire western business
of the company.

Mr. Peake remained there until January, 1886, when he once more came
to Kansas City to assume the duties of auditor for the Standard Oil Company's
branch establishments throughout the west. He thus continued to serve until
1890, when he resigned to engage in his present busines.s — that of public
auditor and expert accountant. His two sons, George L. and Neil S. Peake,
together with W. A. Abell, William F. Shelley and others, are associated
with him, but the firm style is George Peake & Sons. This well known firm
has a nicely furnished suite of rooms in the First National Bank building.
They are recognized among the leaders in their line of business in the west
and have a clientage extending over a considerable portion of the western
country, besides doing a large amount of business in Kansas City. For
several years Mr. Peake has been and is still filling the responsible position
of secretary of the Benefit Building & Loan Association of Kansas City.

Mr. Peake was married on the 16th of April, 1872, to Miss Ella F.
Lester, eldest daughter of Dr. Thomas B. Lester, of this city. Dr. Lester came
to Kansas City from Illinois in 1855 and was a Virginian by birth. His
daughter, Mrs. Peake, w^as born at Salem, Illinois, May 4, 1851, but acquired
a part of her education at Kansas City and completed her studies at the
Elizabeth Aull Seminary at Lexington, Missouri, in 1871. She is a member
of the Central Presbyterian church, affiliated with its different societies and
has been a devout Christian from early life, doing earnest and effective work
in behalf of the church and the extension of its influence. Mr. Peake is also
a member of the church, with which he has been identified since 1868, and
his membership relations extend to the Woodmen of the World. In politics
he is a stanch democrat but has never aspired to political honors, preferring
to devote all his energies and time to business affairs. He is a man highly
respected by all who know him and one whose word is considered as good as
his bond.

The family residence is at 2326 Troost avenue. Ten children were born
unto Mr. and Mrs. Peake, of whom the following are living: George L.
Peake, the eldest, born in Kansas City January 6, 1873, and educated in the
public schools, was employed in his early business career by his uncle, William
Peake, a manufacturer of overalls, with whom he remained for eighteen
months, beginning in 1892. He then accepted a position with Burnham,
Hanna, Munger dry goods company, with whom he continued for a year,
and on the expiration of that period he joined his father in business. He
married Miss Anna Kupke, of this city, a native of Germany, whose father

174 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

died while she was yet in her infancy. Her mother remarried and now resides
in Chicago. Two children have been born unto Mr.a nd Mrs. George L. Peake:
Thomas Bryan, born January 21, 1889; and Eleanor Marie, October 6, 1904.
The home of the famil}^ is at No. 3025 Park avenue. Mr. Peake is a member
of the AVoodmen of the World, of Ivanhoe Lodge, A. F. & A. M., and also of
the Central Presbyterian church.

Neil S. Peake, the younger son, was born in Hannibal, Missouri, August
31, 1873, and was educated in the public schools of Kansas City, of which
he is a graduate. He has been associated wdth his father in business since
1904 and still makes his home with his parents. He, too, is a member of the
Central Presbyterian church and is a valued member of Kansas City Lodge,
No. 26, B. P. 0. E., and the Kansas City Athletic Club. The father and
sons are recognized as leading business men of marked ability in their pro-
fession, and the family is one whose genuine personal worth has gained for
them the highest regard.

GEORGE SCHAEFER.

The history of Jackson county could not be termed complete were the
life record of George Schaefer omitted, since he became a resident of Kan-
sas City in the days of its villagehood and was a factor in its growth and
progress for many years. He maintained an unassailable reputation in busi-
ness circles by reason of the straightforward methods which he followed,
and in social life he manifested those sterling qualities in manhood which
awaken the most kindly and lasting regard. In his business career he ad-
vanced from a humble position to one of prominence and from a place of
limited financial circumstances to affluence, and his death, which occurred on
the 14th of jNIay, 1897, was the occasion of deep and widespread regret. His
life record began in Germany, February 17, 1844, his parents being Con-
rad and Sophie (Wilke) Schaefer, who were likewise natives of Germany.
In 1846 they crossed the Atlantic to America, and for a year resided in New
Orleans, after which they were residents of St. Louis until 1855, when Kan-
sas City attracted them. It was a frontier town of small proportions, but
was advantageously situated, and the father believed that it would offer good
opportunities. He accordingly engaged in blacksmithing here until 1866
and during that period enjoyed a volume of trade that brought him capital
sufficient to enable him to spend his remaining days in honorable retire-
ment from labor, and yet was sufficient to provide him with all of the com-
forts and some of the luxuries of life. On coming to this city in 1857 he
made his home at the corner of Main and Twelfth streets, where the Bern-
hoimer block now stands, and there remained until his death, which occurred
January 4, 1884. His wife was twice married, her first husband being Mr.
Hale, by whom she had three children : Catiierine, the wife of Charles Long,
of Kansas City, and now the mother of seven children ; Wilhelmina, who be-
came the wife of Peter Schwitzgebel and died in 1870, leaving six children;

GEORGE SCHAEFER.

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HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 177

and Henry, who was killed by Indians near Fort Laramie in 1864. Unto
Mr. and Mrs. Conrad Schaefer there were born two sons: George, of this
review; and John, who died in 1884. The mother had passed away in March,
1883. Both parents were members of St. Peter & Paul's Evangelical Lu-
theran church. The father was very active in the church work. He also
served as a member of the Paw Paw militia during 1864-5.

George Schaefer was brought to Kansas City when a youth of about
eleven years and in 1856 he became a pupil in a parochial school at the comer
of Fifteenth and Central streets conducted by the Rev. Mr. Thomas, who
also dedicated Union cemetery. Mr. Schaefer remained under the parental
roof until he had reached adult age, save that from 1863 until 1865 he was
a resident of New Mexico and Arizona. He learned the blacksmith's trade
under the direction of his father, and continued to follow it until 1869,
when he became connected with the mercantile interests of the city as pro-
prietor of a feed store at the site of the old family home on Main and
Twelfth streets. He afterward conducted a meat market there until 1884,
when he removed his store to a building on the opposite corner, while he
erected on the old site the fine Bernheimer building, a four-story brick struc-
ture, sixty-two by one hundred and twelve and a half feet. In 1890 he
also erected the Household Fair building, and these two constituted impor-
tant business blocks of the city and returned to him an excellent rental. He
was a man of keen sagacity, of unfaltering enterprise and of clear discrim-
ination, and was seldom, if ever, at fault in matters of business judgment.
He recognized and improved his opportunities, and in all of his business
connections was found thoroughly reliable as well as energetic.

In 1870 occurred the marriage of Mr. Schaefer and Miss Margaret
Gleim, a native of Hamilton county, Ohio, and a daughter of George Gleim.
Mrs. Schaefer was brought to Kansas City at the age of seventeen
years, and by her marriage became the mother of seven children : Anna, now
the wife of W. C. Howe, Jr., by whom she has one child, Florence Mar-
garet; Lottie, who is the wife of Fred AVolf. of Ellinwood, Kansas, and the
mother of two children, John Frederick and Robert George; Daisy, the wife
of Dr. S. S. Landon, of Kansas City, by whom she has two children, Mar-
garet Eugenie and- Katherine Amy ; Walter George, a son not yet of age ;
Norton, who died in September, 1896, at the age of nine years; and Robert
James and George, also deceased. The family residence is one of the beau-
tiful homes of Kansas City. It is built in most attractive style of architec-
ture, is commodious and comfortable and stands in the midst of a four-acre
lawn which displays many evidences of the art of the landscape gardener.
The family attend St. Peter & Paul's Evangelical Lutheran church, to the
support of which Mr. Schaefer contributed liberally. He was also a Knight
Templar Mason and filled offices in both the lodge and commandery. In pol-
itics he was a republican, but he never sought nor desired office, preferring
to concentrate his energies upon his business affairs. The steps of orderly
progression in his life are easily discernible. He watched for favoring op-
portunities and was not afraid to advance when the chance came. He learned
to correctly value life's contacts and experiences, and whatever he undertook

178 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

he carried forward to successful completion. His business methods, too, were
such as would bear careful scrutiny and investigation. He was widely known
for many good qualities as manifest in his business and social life, and
while eleven years have passed since he was called to his final home, his
memory is yet cherished by many who knew him. Mrs. Schaefer, still sur-
viving her husband, assumed full charge of his large business interests upon
his demise, and in their conduct has been remarkably successful, display-
ing excellent ability, clear insight and determination. In addition to su-
perintending the extensive property interests which he left she has built
here many homes, and has thus contributed to the improvement of the
city, while from her interests she has derived substantial benefits.

JOSEPH MACAULEY LOWE.

Joseph Macauley Lowe, well descended and well bred, is fortunate in
having back of him an ancestry honorable and distinguished, while his own
lines of life have been cast in harmony therewith. A lawyer by profession,
who has attained success and prominence at the bar, he is now largely devot-
ing his attention to private interests, but is preeminently a man of affairs and
one who has wielded a wide influence.

His natal day was December 13, 1844, and the place of his nativity
Pendleton county, Kentucky. His parents were Moses and Nancy Watson
(Porter) Lowe, also natives of Kentucky, and the family is of Anglo-German
descent. Sir Hudson Lowe, a British general, was in command of St. Helena
while Napoleon was an exile there from 1815 until 1821. Robert Lowe,
viscount of Sherbrooke, was a noted English politician and filled many im-
portant official positions, including that of chancellor of the exchequer and
home secretaary. He did much toward establishing the political policy of his
country during the nineteenth century and died in 1892. Germans of the
name have been celebrated for high class musical compositions and as
operatic singers. Wilhelm Lowe was called the Lion-Ox, on acount of his
bravery and patience, and was a noted German liberal politician in pre-
imperial times. The Porters were also conspicuous in literature and in war.
Anna Marie Porter was the author of several novels, while Tliaddeus of
Warsaw and other productions, the work of Jane Porter, have been perhaps
more widely read than any productions from a woman's pen. Both the Lowe
and Porter families were represented in the colonial army during the Amer-
ican revolution. William Thomas Lowe removed from Virginia to Kentucky
in pioneer times and purchased the present site of the city of Lexington.
Governor Lowe, of Maryland, was also a member of this family. The east-
ern branch of the family, which struck the final E from the name, has a
prominent representative in Seth Low, the president of Columbia University
of New York city. Seth Low's father married a Nancy Porter.

Moses Lowe, father of J. M. Lowe, of this review, devoted his life to
farming in Kentucky, and for several years was justice of the peace. Upon

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 179

the old homestead farm there his son Joseph M. was reared, and from an early-
age was familiar with the work of the fields, while in the winter months he
attended the country schools to the age of sixteen years. He then enlisted
in the Confederate army and served for three months, after which he taught
a district school at Greenfield, Indiana, at the same time pursuing the study
of law in the office of James L. Mason during his leisure hours. In 1864 he
was appointed clerk in the Indiana state senate, serving for two years, and in
1865 he successfully passed an examination which secured him admission to
the bar at Greenfield, Indiana.

Mr. Lowe has been a representative of the Missouri bar since 1868, when
he located for practice at Plattsburg, this state, where he remained until 1883.
There he won cordial advancement by reason of his marked devotion to his
clients' interests, his thorough preparation of his cases and his able handling
of his cause in the courts. From 1872 until 1880 he served as prosecuting
attorney of Clinton county, being chosen by popular suffrage at four succes-
sive elections. The first time he was nominated by the democrats, the
"people" then placed his name on the people's ticket, and afterward the
republicans did the same, thus giving him three nominations for the same
office.

In 1883 Mr. Lowe arrived in Kansas City, since which time he has
devoted much of his attention to personal affairs, although he is also well
known as an able member of the bar. In 1889 he was appointed receiver of
the National Exchange Bank and so managed its affairs that he paid the
depositors in full and the stockholders a good dividend. He has ever kept
abreast with the best thinking men of the age, has read broadly and considers
deeply the vital questions affecting state and national interests in any of its
phases. He is an eloquent speaker, possessing superior oratorical power, and
has been called upon to address many gatherings upon important questions.
His address before the Kansas City Commercial Club in 1896 on Agriculture
and Commerce, Twin Sisters in the Country's Development, was a most
entertaining one and full of historic facts. For his learned and able address
before the South and. West Commercial Congress at Charleston in 1898 he
received a vote of thanks. He was also called upon to address the Trans-
Mississippi Congress at Houston, Texas. He possesses a statasman's grasp of
affairs and his political interest has ever been that of a public-spirited citizen
who desires general good rather than personal aggrandizement and places
the welfare of the country before partisanship. He was, however, a candidate
for lieutenant governor in 1900, and his political views may be termed those
of a conservative democrat.

In 1876 Mr. Lowe was married to Miss Mary E. McWilliams, a daughter
of Dr. John Q. A. McWilliams, of Madison county, Kentucky, and a descend-
ant of the McWilliams and Hockaday families, who were among the pioneers
of Virginia and Kentucky. Her grandfather. Captain John Cleveland Mc-
Williams served in the war of 1812, and through the Cleveland branch of the
family Mrs. Lowe is related to Grover Cleveland. By her marriage she hag
become the mother of a son and daughter, John Roger and Florence Marian.

180 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

The family attend the Baptist church, of which Mr. Lowe is a member,
He stands for all that is best in the individual, in citizenship and in business
life. The strong qualities which have made him useful in one locality would
have insured his eminence anywhere. Though never a seeker for political
honors he has exerted through his wide acquaintance with the leaders of
political and business life an influence exceeding that of many whose names
are familiar in public affairs. Governor Folk appointed him chairman of
the board of election commissioners in 1895, and during the existence of this
board, it has been universally conceded that the elections have been fair,
honest and orderly.

MRS. JENNIE M. PHILLIPS.

Mrs. Jennie M. Phillips, well known in Kansas City, w^here she has re-
sided since 1900, makes her home with her daughter, Mrs. Thomas L. Muli-
nix, at No. 3005 East Twenty-fifth street. She bore the maiden name of
Jennie M. Hall and is a native of Trumbull county, Ohio, her birth having
there occurred November 12, 1829. She can trace her ancestry back to the
Mayflower and several generations of the family were represented in New
England and the east. Her parents were Elijah and Anna Hall, both natives
of New Jersey, born near the town of Columbus. Mr. Hall, who devoted his
life to mechanical pursuits, removed to Trumbull county, Ohio after his mar-
riage and there worked at his trade for many years, after which he took up
his abode in Ashtabula county, Ohio. At the latter place he also followed
his trade for a few years, but on account of advanced age eventually gave up
hard work and retired from active life. Later he and his wife made their
home with their married children in different parts of the country; both are
now deceased, however.

Their daughter Jennie was reared and educated in the county of her
nativity and in early womanhood gave her hand in marriage to Henry
Thomas, of Connecticut. His parents were natives of that state but spent
the greater part of their lives in Ohio and there eventually passed away.
Henry Thomas was a jeweler by trade and following his marriage engaged
in that line of business in Gustavus, Ohio, for a few years, after which he
removed to Fremont, Ohio, where he worked at his trade during his remain-
ing days, his death there occurring in 1889. There were two children by
that marriage, the elder being Eva B., now the wife of Thomas L. Mulinix,
who is engaged in the wholesale jewelry business in Kansas City. He is a
native of Lancaster, Ohio, and a son of James W. Mulinix, who owned a
large flour mill in Lancaster, Ohio, but afterward removed to Toledo, that
state, where he engaged in merchandising until his business was destroyed
by fire. He then became a resident of Chicago, where he resided until his
death. His son, Thomas L. Mulinix, is a prominent wholesale jewelry dealer
of Kansas City, with offices at No. 318 Century building, but spends most of
his time in traveling and selling his goods, leaving his son in charge of the in-

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 181

terests in Kansas City. There was but one child born unto Mr. and Mrs.
Thomas Mulinix — Thomas Wilbur W., who now acts as manager of his fath-
er's wholesale jewelry business in the Century building. He married Bessie
Steward and they reside at No. 3316 East Twenty-first street. Mr. Mulinix
has a sister, Miss Minnie E. Mulinix, who is a leading musician of Chicago.
Mary Elizabeth, the younger daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas, is now
the wife of Charles Waldorf, a resident of Wichita, Kansas.

Following the death of her first husband, Mrs. Thomas became the wife
of Henry Phillips, who now resides ten miles south of Hillsdale, Michigan.
After her second marriage Mrs. Phillips remained in Michigan for a few
years and since that time has made her home with her daughters, remaining
with Mrs. Mulinix in Kansas City since 1900. She is now seventy-eight years
of age but is a remarkably well preserved woman. Her daughter, Mrs. Muli-
nix, spends considerable time in traveling with her husband, but since the
establishment of the wholesale jewelry business here they have purchased
a nice home at No. 3005 East Twenty-fifth street, where they and her mother
reside. Mrs. Phillips is the owner of some valuable property near Hillsdale,
Michigan, and is quite well to do. She has made some warm friends during
her residence in Kansas City and Mr. and Mrs. Mulinix are also prominent
in social circles here.

WILLIAM H. McCRUM.

William H. McCrum, organizer and vice president of the Orthwein-
McCrum Investment Company of Kansas City, was here born on the 9th of
September, 1877. His father, John S. McCrum, was superintendent of
motive power for the Kansas City, Fort Scott & Missouri Railroad for more
than thirty years and died in 1899. His wife bore the maiden name of
Sarah H. Hammond.

In the common schools William H. McCrum began his education and,
passing through consec*utive grades, became a high-school student. At the
age of seventeen he entered the office of the auditing department of the Kan-
sas City, Fort Scott & Missouri Railroad, where he remained for six years
in various capacities, receiving many promotions. As there was nothing
further for him to expect there in the way of advancement and desirous of
getting into some commercial line with greater possibilities, he resigned to
accept a position with H. P. Wright & Company, stock and bond brokers,
with whom he continued until 1905. He then withdrew and engaged in the
same line of business on his own account. In March, 1907, he joined Charles
Orthwein and J. D. White in organizing the Orthwein-McCrum Investment
Company, of which Mr. Orthwein is president; Mr. McCrum, vice president;
and J. D. White, secretary and treasurer. They do a large business in local se-
curities and also have private wires to the Chicago grain market and the New
York stock markets. They have a large suite of offices, centrally located at
No. 1010 Baltimore avenue on the ground floor of the Dwight building.

182 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Mr. McCrum ls a member of the Kansas City Club and the Kansas City
Athletic Club. He is an intelligent young man of business ability, whose use-
fulness and success will undoubtedly increase as the years ptiss. By nature
he is social, yet modest and unassuming in manner, his friends, however,
finding him a congenial companion.

STEPHEN NORTHROP DWIGHT.

Stephen Northrop Dwight, wlio spent his last days in Kansas City, was
prominently identified with the development of the west as a representative
of financial, banking and mining interests. His superior business ability,
enterprise and ready grasp of a situation, enabled him to become closely
associated with the establishment and successful conduct of enterprises which
proved important factors in the growth and progress of this section of the
country.

The Dwight family were originally from England. The founder of
the family in America was one John Dwight, who settled at Dadham, Mass-
achusetts. Stephen N. Dwight was born in Belchertown, Massachusetts, on
the 10th day of June, 1853, in the same house in which his father and
grandfather were born. His mother was Sarah Elizabeth Northrop, of Con-
necticut. His father, Cory don G. Dwight, was engaged in the manufacture
of firearms for the government during the period of the Civil war, at New
Haven, Connecticut.

Stephen N. DAvight spent his boyhood and received his education in
New Haven. His father moved to Michigan, and he began his business
career in Kalamazoo, Michigan, but study of the business situation of the
country in various sections, led him to believe that the west offered splendid
opportunities, and accordingly, he made his way in 1874 to Kansas. His
first location was at Independence, that state, where he engaged in the bank-
ing business. He continued in that business until about ten years before
his death. He was connected with several banks in Kansas, also organized
and was cashier of the American National Bank at Fort Smith, Arkansas,
but not liking the climate, sold his interest and went to Lcadville, Colo-
rado, where he organized the American National Bank and was its presi-
dent. After selling his banking interests, he engaged in mining for a time,
then went to California, where he stayed more than a year, but it seemed
too far away from all friends and relatives, so he returned to Kansas and
became identified with the development of the mining resource? at Galena,
also bought the water works, which he enlarged and improved in every way.
He closed out his minor interests before moving to Kansas City, but owned
and operated the water works up to the time of his death, after which they
were sold by his widow. One of the elements of his exceedingly successful
career was the quickness with which he noted an opportunity that others
passed heedlessly by, when he saw a chance for profitable investment or
for the establishment of an enterprise that promised success. Forming

S. N. DWIGHT.

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JI-JiATIONS

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 185

his plans readily he was determined in their execution and carried forward
to successful completion whatever he undertook. In his mental review of
the west, he noted the bright outlook before Kansas City, and showed his
faith in its future by the purchase of considerable property. Time dem-
onstrated his wisdom in this regard and increased the value of his realty
holdings. The erection of the handsome office structure, known as the
Dwight building, at the corner of Tenth and Baltimore avenue, is an evi-
dence of his foresight and faith in Kansas City's future greatness. This
magnificent building was the pioneer of its kind and added an important
step to Kansas City's realty growth that can only be estimated by a review
of the improved property conditions of that immediate locality. The suc-
cess of this undertaking added a stimulus to Kansas City real-estate inter-
ests, at a time when most needed, and stands as a monument to his enter-
prise and judgment. The property is now owned by Mrs. Dwight. Mr.
Dwight also purchased other realty here and felt that it was a thoroughly
safe investment and one which would bring good returns..

Mr. Dwight was married in Independence, Kansas, to Miss Rodella G.
Arter, daughter of Dr. Anthony H. Arter, who went to Kansas in 1869 from
Rock Island, Illinois. He was a skillful physician, but gave up the practice
of medicine some years ago and turned his attention to mining and specula-
tion. He retired a few^ years ago and is now living in Kansas City, Missouri.
Mr, Dwight was a man of domestic tastes, finding his greatest happiness at
his own fireside, and a most congenial companionship existed between him-
self and wife.

His political allegiance was given to the republican party, and fra-
ternally, he was connected Avith the Masons and Knights of Pythias. He
died in 1904 and thus was terminated a life of great activity and useful-
ness. He belonged to that class of representative American men who,
while promoting individual prosperity, also contributed to the general wel-
fare. His face indicated that character, balance, harmony and sound judg-
ment were among his natural traits. Any one seeing him would know
that he was a dependable man in any relation and any emergency. Quiet-
ude of deportment, easy dignity, and a frankness and cordiality of address
were among his noticeable characteristics. He was ever ready to meet any
obligation of life with the confidence and courage that come of conscious
personal ability, right conception of things and an habitual regard for what
was best in the exercise of human activities.

BRUNO L. SULZBACHER, M. D.

There is no profession in which distinction and success depend more
largely upon individual merit and ability than in the practice of medicine
and surgery. In many business interests real skill and worth must be proven
by the test of time but the physician is judged by what he accomplishes day
by day and the consensus of public opinion is formed as the result of his

186 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

daily labor. Dr. Sulzbacher, judged by this standard, which is applied to
every follower of the calling, is accorded prominence and honor as a repre-
sentative of the medical fraternity and yet he is still comparatively a young
man.

His father, the Hon. Louis Sulzbacher, is judge of the United States
federal court in the Indian Territory. He was born in Bavaria, Germany,
and came to America when eighteen years of age, working his way by de-
grees across the country until he reached Kansas City. The Santa Fe Rail-
road had not been built at that time and he started with an ox-team of pro-
visions, following the Santa Fe trail, which was the one important highway
leading into that section of the country. He proceeded to Santa Fe and
afterward to Las Vegas, where he decided to establish a law office and en-
gage in practice as an attorney. But the business in that new and then
largely undeveloped district did not prove sufficicMitly remunerative and he
was obliged to resort to hunting and trapping as a source of support. With
the advent of the raih\)ad, however, the country became settled and business
increased and it was not long before he was appointed attorney for the
Santa Fe Railroad. A man of sterling qualities, he has been recognized by
three presidents: first in the appointment of President U. S. Grant, who
named him United States commissioner; next by the late President William
McKinley, who appointed him to the post of justice of the supreme court
of Porto Rico; and later by President Roosevelt to his present position. It
was the desire of President Roosevelt that Judge Sulzbacher should continue
in the office in Porto Rico but his longing for his home compelled the pres-
ident to accede to his request to relieve him from office there and he was
transferred by the department of justice and appointed to his present posi-
tion.

Dr. Sulzbacher is a native of Las Vegas, New Mexico. His preliminary
education was acquired in a Presbyterian mission school there and later he
obtained a thorough educational training in the Jesuit College. In 1887
he became a student in Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania and a year later
he entered Rugby Academy in Philadelphia, from which he was graduated
ni due course of time. In the meanwhile, his parents having removed to
Kansas City, he returned to the west and pursvied a preparatory medical
course in the state university of Lawrence, Kansas. He further continued
his preparation in the University Medical College of Kansas City, from
which institution he was graduated in 1895, receiving the second prize in
his class. For a year he practiced in Kansas City and by appointment filled
the position of assistant demonstrator of anatomy in the college.

Desiring to attain further proficiency, knowledge and experience, Dr.
Sulzbacher resolved to go abroad for further study and in 1896 made his
way to Germany. He pursued regular and post-graduate work in the uni-
versities of Berlin, Gottingen and Vienna and thus with greatly enlarged
powers, owing to his investigation and researches, he returned to Kansas
City, resuming his practice. During the years 1898-99 he occupied the chair
of demonstrator of pathology in the University Medical College and the
following year was professor of histology. In 190,'^ he received the appoint-

HISTORY or KANSAS CITY 187

merit of chief of staff of the German hospital and in 1905 was local surgeon
for the Frisco Railroad. During the latter part of that year he again went
abroad, where he remained for a year for further study and while there was
appointed assistant to Professor Landau in his private hospital for diseases
of women in Berlin. In the more direct line of his profession he is a mem-
ber of the Western Surgical & Gynecological Association, the Aesculapian
Society, the Medical Association of New Mexico and the Mississippi Val-
ley Medical -Vssociation.

Dr. Sulzbacher has been assistant surgeon of Battery B of the National
Guard of Kansas City and is a thirty-second degree Mason and a noble of
the Mystic Shrine. He is also an Elk and became one of the charter
members of the Kansas City Athletic Club. He also belongs to the Elm
Ridge Club, to the Knife and Fork Club and the Music and Art Club, now
the art institute. He appreciates all that is being done for intellectual and
esthetic culture and broadened his own knowledge of music, painting and
sculpture in the art centers of the old world. While a man of broad
scientific attainments in professional lines, he is yet alive to the interests of
the world and its development and progress along other lines.

GEORGE S. BATTELL.

In the business circles of Kansas City the name of George S. Battell was
honored as one whose enterprise and commendable success entitled him to
recognition. He was a partner in the Zahner & Battell Manufacturing Com-
pany, manufacturers of metal specialties and stoves. They also conducted
a retail hardware business and the various departments were sources of grati-
fying revenue. Mr. Battell dated his residence in Kansas City from 1872. His
birth occurred in Mendon, Adams county, Illinois, October 15, 1856, his par-
ents being Richard and Hannah (Schieffelin) Battell, both of whom were
natives of New York city. Removing westward in 1845, they settled in Men-
don, Illinois, and about that time Richard Battell became interested in the
plow manufacturing business in Quincy, Illinois, but made his home in Men-
don. He was thus identified with industrial interests throughout his remain-
ing days and his death occurred in Mendon in 187i3. His widow continued to
reside at the old home there until she, too, passed away, in 1907, at the age
of eightv-seven vears.

When a little lad of six summers, George S. Battell became a pupil in
the public schools of his native town and gradually mastered the branches of
learning that constitute the public school curriculum. When a young man
he began work in a metal shop of Mendon and w^as thus engaged until 18V 2,
becoming familiar with the business in principle and detail. When he came
to Kansas City he w^as only about seventeen years of age and he afterward
attended a college here, thus completing his education. Subsequently he ac-
cepted a position in the metal shop of Wise & Zahner, remaining in that
employ for a year. This was his equipment but he soon passed on to positions

188 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

of executive control, subsequently bending his energies largely to organiza-
tion, to constructive efforts and administrative direction. He had been with
the firm for a year when Mr. AVise withdrew and Mr. Battell succeeded him
as partner of Mr. Zahner. He brought all of his energies to bear upon the
development of the business, which was organized under the name of the
Zahner & Battell Manufacturing Company and which is still carried on under
the name of the Zahner Manufacturing Company. The plant was located
on the Southwest boulevard and the partners through their united efforts de-
veloped one of the largest enterprises of the city in the manufacture of stoves
and metal work of all kinds. The excellence of their products insured a
ready sale and the business enjoyed substantial growth annually. Mr. Battell
was also interested in the retail hardware store conducted by the firm at No.
940 Main street, where a large business was carried on. He, however, con-
centrated his energies more specifically upon the control of the office interests
at the factory on Southwest boulevard.

In 1889 Mr. Battell was married in Kansas City to Miss Mary L. Meily,
who was here born and is a daughter of John E. and Rebecca Meily, both
natives of Freeport, Illinois, and pioneer residents of Kansas City, arriving
here in 1858. The father purchased property at the northeast corner of
Sixteenth and Washington streets, where he built several houses. He was a
carpenter by trade and for the last twenty-six years of his life was employed
by the Fort Scott & Gulf Railway Company at Kansas City in the line of
his chosen pursuit. In 1906 he sustained an injury which caused his death
in July of that year. Mrs. Meily still owns the family homestead at No. 442
West Sixteenth street but now resides with her daughter, Mrs. Battell. Coming
to Kansas City at an early day, the Meily family were prominent among the
pioneer residents here and the members of the family are well known. Mrs.
Meily has another daughter, Mrs. James C. Rieger, the wife of a prominent
attorney of Kansas City.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Battell was born one son, Schieffelin Meily Battell,
who is now attending the manual high school and resides with his mother.
The husband and father died March 1, 1902. He was a devoted member of
the Grand Avenue Methodist Episcopal church, to which Mrs. Battell also
belongs, while Mrs. Meily is a member of the Summit Avenue Methodist
Episcopal church. Mr. Battell likewise held membership with the Retail
Merchants' Association and was interested in all that pertained to the city's
development and commercial upbuilding. Socially he was a charter member
of Modern AVoodmen Camp, No. 2002. His political allegiance was given the
republican party. Interested in old family relics, he had had in his possession
a book for many years — an old volume of poetry and paintings that was writ-
ten up and painted by his uncle and is at least a hundred years old. It is
now in the possession of Mrs. Battell.

Mr. Battell never sought to figure in public life but in his various asso-
ciations he was a just and considerate employer, a faithful friend and a de-
voted husband and father. It is not from the few conspicuous deeds of life
tliat the blcs.sings chiefly come which make the world sweeter, better and hap-
pier, but from the countless lonely ministrations of the everydays, the little

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 189

faithfulnesses that fill long years. It was these things that endeared Mr.
Battell to his family and his friends. A year prior to his death he built a
nice residence at No. 1315 Prospect avenue, where Mrs. Battell and her son
and her mother now reside. Two years after her husband's demise she sold
her interest in the business to Mr. Zahner and has her capital well invested.
Her entire life has been passed in Kansas City and she is thus largely familiar
with the history of its development and upbuilding.

AUGUSTUS L. CHOUTEAU.

Augustus L. Chouteau is well remembered by many residents of Kan-
sas City although he was never actively engaged in business here. He had
acquired a goodly fortune ere he took up his abode here and his last days
were spent in the enjoyment of well earned ease. He belonged to a prom-
inent old French family which was established in America at an early day.
His birth occurred in St. Louis in 1814. Both his father and mother were
of French ancestry and became residents of St. Louis in pioneer times, re-
maining there until called to the home beyond.

Augustus L. Chouteau acquired an excellent education in the Jesuit
College of St. Louis and while a young man he entered the employ of his
uncle, Pierre Chouteau, who was engaged in the fur business in St. Louis
under the name of the Missouri Fur Company and who sent his nephew
west to buy furs. Augustus Chouteau therefore spent nine years in the
Rocky mountains buying and trading in furs among the Indians and be-
coming familiar with the various phases of frontier life, gaining as well an
intimate knowledge of the methods employed by the red men in their bus-
iness transactions. At length he returned to St. Louis and began business on
his own account, dealing in fancy groceries for a few years. He then re-
moved to Alton, Illinois, which was then a small town, and began buying
and improving property. At one time he owned nearly all of that city. He
would purchase lots and transform unsightly vacancies into fine residence
districts, becoming well known as a speculative builder. His excellent judg-
ment in matters of real-estate investment brought him splendid success and
he continued in the general real-estate business of Alton for over thirty
years, realizing most gratifying profit upon his purchases and sales of prop-
erty. As time passed he advanced from affluence to wealth and as a capital-
ist removed to Chicago, where he resided for two years, coming thence to
Kansas City in 1878. He embarked in no active business enterprise here,
deriving his income from his valuable investments and enjoying during his
remaining days a well earned retirement from business cares.

Mr. Chouteau was married in Alton, Illinois, to Miss Elizabeth H.
Bnnier. a daughter of Jacob and Mary (Dodge) Bruner. The mother was
a native of Salem, Massachusetts. The father was born in Kentucky and
the town of Brunersville was named in honor of his father. Jacob Bruner
removed from the Blue Grass state to Edwardsville, Illinois, where for sev-

190 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

eral years he engaged in the hat manufacturing business and then took up
his abode in Alton among its early settlers, for the town had but recently
been established. He was made the first postmaster at Alton and was other-
wise identified with its early development and upbuilding. He was after-
ward appointed warden of the state penitentiary at Alton and filled that
position for four years. On his retirement he engaged in the dry goods bus-
iness and continued in that line throughout his remaining days. Both he
and his wife passed away in Alton.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Chouteau were born, eleven children, seven of whom,
are yet living, namely: Amidee B., who now resides iii*San Francisco, Cal-
ifornia; Mrs. Julia M. Legg, of Kansas City, Kansas; Augustus L., who is
now engaged in the cigar business at No. 118 West Eighth street in Kansas
City; Clara C, the wife of Dr. Thomas J. Beattie, one of the most prom-
inent physicians of Kansas City; Mrs. Louise Breeder, of Kansas City;
Blanche E., who resides with her mother; and Lillian C, the wife of Fred
C. Merry, of the Merry Optical Company, of Kansas City, Those deceased
are Mrs. Mary Piatt, Mrs. Lilly Shoemaker, William B. and Eva. The last
two died in childhood.

The death of the husband and father occurred December 1, 1887, after
which his remains were taken to Alton, Illinois, for interment. He was a
communicant of the Catholic church, to which Mrs. Chouteau yet belongs.
His business career was notably exceptional in its success. He possessed
remarkable sagacity and enterprise and was seldom, if ever, at error in mat-
ters of business judgment, especially concerning real-estate investment. He
won splendid success and was thus enabled to leave his family in very com-
fortable financial circumstances. Since losing her husband ]\Irs. Chouteau
has made her home with her children in Kansas City and is now living
with her daughter. Mrs. Dr. Beattie, at No. 1201 Linwood boulevard.

THEODOR C. PELTZER.

Theodor C. Peltzer, for fourteen years a representative of the real-estate
and loan business in Kansas City, arrived here in company with his father,
Theodor Peltzer, Sr., from Atchison. Kansas. The father engaged in l)rick
manufacturing at the corner of Third and Wyandotte streets, where the Grand
Central depot is now located, a few years later the McClelland. Stunipf &
Peltzer Brick Manufacturing Company was organized with Theodor Peltzer
as president and they successfully carried on the enterprise for about twenty
years. The rapid growth of the city provided an excellent market for the
manufactured product and as the years passed the company developed one
of the most extensive productive industries of this character in Kansas City.
This firm manufactured building and other kinds of brick and the extent
of its business made Mr. Peltzer. in the course of years, one of the men of
affluence here. About ten years ago he retired from active business, spend-
ing his remaining days in the enjoyment of a well earned and richly merited

THEODORE PELTZER, SR.

T,. , -i^

PUBLIC .IBlaARY

ASTOR, LENOX
I TI LD E N yO iJ t~ » AT10NS_

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 193

rest. The only business interests which claimed his attention were in the
line of real-estate investment and loans. He passed away November 27, 1900,
and thus Kansas City lost a citizen whose value and worth had long been
recognized and who in business circles enjoyed the full confidence of his
colleagues and the admiration of his contemporaries. He was a native of
Germany, while his wife, who bore the maiden name of Gertrude Merwick,
was born in Holland. Their family numbered four children: William P.,
Herman J., Mrs. Mary Kurt and Theodor C, all residents of Kansas City.

Theodor C. Peltzer, whose name introduces this review, is a native of
AVinthrop, Missouri, born November 28, 1875. The removal of his family
to Kansas City during his early childhood enabled him to pursue his educa-
tion in the Linwood school here, w^hile later he attended St. Benedict's Col-
lege, from which he was graduated in the class of 1894. Immediately after-
ward he entered the field of real-estate operation in Kansas City and has since
carried on a successful real-estate and loan business. For a few years be
was also interested in doing some building but of late years has confined
his attention more largely to the loan and fire insurance business and to
his real-estate operations. He purchased the real-estate business of E. H.
Phelps & Company, W. G. Leggett and the E. P. Sexton Realty Company
and is now widely recognized as one of the prominent representatives of
this field of activity in Kansas City. He is also the owner of the old family
home at the northwest corner of Linwood and Pa.seo, which he purchased
soon after his mother's death and which he now occupies.

Mr. Peltyer was married on the 28th of June, 1904, to Miss Mattie
Couch, who was born in Olathe, Kansas, but has spent the greater part of
her ]if^ in Kansas City. Mr. Peltzer is a member of the Kansas City
Athletic Club, the Automobile Club and of the Knights of Columbus, while
his religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Catholic church.
He is now a prosperous man, owing to his unwearied industry. There is
about him an atmosphere of push and determination and of energy well con-
trolled. He has placed a correct valuation upon life's contacts and' expe-
riences, has learned to make the best use of every opportunity and not a little
of his success is due to the fact of his correct reading of men and character.

FRANK B. LEWIS.

Kansas City in recent years has taken rank with the metropolitan trade
centers of the country, its commercial and industrial interests bringing it into
close connection with the outside world and promoting its prosperity and
development. Among the enterprises which are factors therein is included
the wholesale business of Frank B. Lewis, a dealer in leather findings and
shoe store supplies. He was born in Savannah, Georgia, on the 14th of
March, 1853, his parents being Robert A. and Catherine A. (Cook) Lewis.
He traces his ancestry in the maternal line back to Lieutenant Colonel Bar-
rington, who was a cousin of General Oglethorpe, the founder of the colony

194 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

of Georgia, receiving the territory within its borders as a grant from King
George III, of England, together with a large sum of money which was used
in opening the prison doors of England and thus freeing the Huguenots, who
were brought to this country to settle the new colony. The state was named
by the Colonel in honor of King George. Lieutenant Colonel Barrington was
the great grandfather of Frank B. Lewis and his daughter became the wife of
Wiliam Cook, an English barrister, who settled in Georgia, but later both
Mr. Cook and the Lieutenant Colonel Barrington returned to England, where
their last days were passed.

Robert A. Lewis was a native of Georgia, his grandfather having come
into that country with the French Huguenots. In the state which was the
home of his ancestors Frank B. Lewis was born but was largely reared and
acquired his education in New^ York city, where his parents removed when
he was but a year old. At the age of eighteen years he secured a position
in a leather findings house and there became thoroughly acquainted with
the business in principle and detail. In 1880 he embarked in business on
his ow^n account, laying the foundation for the present successful mercantile
enterprise which he is now conducting and which is the largest of the kind
in this city. He deals extensively in leather findings and shoe store supplies
and has built up an excellent patronage which brings to him a large volume
of trade annually.

In 1894 Mr. Lewis was united in marriage to Miss Ardena Whitsett, of
Kansas City. They have two children : Margaret B. and Frances A. In
politics Mr. Lewis is a democrat, but without aspiration for office. He gives
undivided attention to his business affairs, which, capably conducted, are
bringing to him signal success.

AUGUST R. MEYER.

America, ably termed the land of opportunity, gave to August R. Meyer
his chance of success. The difference between a prosperous man and he who
meets only failure, however, is that one sees and utilizes the advantages and
the other passes them by heedlessly. One of the world's w'orkers, developing
his native powers by broad study and experience, August R. Meyer gained a
position of distinctive prominence as a representative of the great mining
industries of the west. He w^as notable, moreover, in that few men who
attain the financial prominence that came to hi in enjoy in so large a degree
the confidence, honor and respect of those with whom they are associated.
Too often the acquircnicnt of wealth leaves the marks and scars of the battle,
but throughout an intensely active life Mr. Meyer also cultivated those graces
of character which are manifest in an acknowledgment of the rights of others
for kindly consideration for one's fellow travelers on life's journey and an
appreciation of all that promotes intellectual, esthetic and moral culture.
Thus the people who knew^ him in his lifetime rejoiced in the honors and

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 195

successes to which he attained and ever cherished his memory since he has
been called from the scene of earthly activities.

Mr. Meyer was one of Missouri's native sons, born in St. Louis in 1851.
His father, Heinrich Peter Meyer, was a native of Hamburg, and the mother,
who bore the maiden name of Margaretha Krafts, was also of German
nativity. When a young man the father, crossing the Atlantic to America
to enjoy its more extended business privileges, settled in St. Louis, where he
became the head of an extensive business conducted under the name of the St.
Louis Woodenware Company, an enterprise that is still in existence. He was
very successful, the business securing a volume of trade which enabled him
to advance to a position in the ranks of the wealthy manufacturers of St.
Louis.

In the schools of his native city August R. Meyer pursued his early
education and at the age of fourteen was sent to Europe to complete his
studies. He was for some time a student in the Collge of Canton Zurich,
Switzerland, and having made choice of mining engineering as a profession
he completed his scientific education in the school of mines at Freiberg,
Saxony, from which he was graduated in 1872. Subsequently he spent several
terms as a student in the University of Berlin and later traveled through the
leading mining countries of Europe, studying the practical work carried on
in the field. Thus equipped with the best training that the old world could
afford, Mr. Meyer returned to St. Louis and for a period was engaged in
examining coal lands in Illinois. He soon passed on to positions of executive
control, subsequently bending his energies largely to organization, to con-
structive efforts and administrative direction. Possessing broad, enlightened
and liberal-minded views, faith in himself and in the vast potentialities in-
herent in his country's wide domain, the specific needs along the distinctive
lines chosen for his life work, his was an active career, in which he acom-
plished important and far-reaching results. In the spring of 1874 he went ta
Colorado and soon after was appointed government assayer for the district of
Fairplay, the appointment coming to him in recognition of a scientific paper
which he had written soon after his return to America and which attracted
widespread attention and endorsement.

Mr. Meyer continued in that position until 1875 and then became senior
partner of the firm of A. R. Meyer & Company, which opened an ore-crush-
ing mill at Alma, Colorado, and conducted business at that point until 1881.
His work in the development of the mining resources of the state forms an
integral and important chapter in Colorado's history. He was one of the
three founders of Leadville, visiting the site of that city in the fall of 1877,
when the locality was known as Caifornia Gulch. He made a critical ex-
amination of the mineral deposits, and being satisfied that the district con-
tained vast hidden wealth he purchased thirty acres and began the develop-
ment of the property. In February, 1878, with Alvinus B. Wood, of Ann
Arbor, Michigan, and George L. Henderson of Ohio, he laid out the town,
secured a postofRce and gave to the place the name of Leadville. He was^
also the pioneer here in its industrial interests, building its first sampling and
smelting works. In 1879, associated with Governor Taber and others, he

196 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

laid out the addition, including Harrison avenue, which is now the most im-
portant thoroughfare of the city. He was also at the head of the Meyer
Mining Company of Leadville and there resided until 1881.

Each forward step in his career had brought yir. Meyer a broader out-
look and wider scope for his activities, and his business life was notable by
reason of his sound judgment and wonderfully keen discernment. He made
a general study of Kansas City, its commercial prospects and! its railroad
advantages, with the result that he determined to make it the place of his
business headquarters and his permanent re-idencc. P'ollowing his removal
here he joined N. Witherall and T. Burdell in purchasing the small smelting
plant at Argentine. Mr. Meyer then reorganized the company, remodeled and
enlarged the works and began operations. From the beginning the new
enterprise proved a profitable venture and the growth of the business resulted
in the capitalization of the company for two million dollars, while the annual
business transacted reached fifteen million dollars. Constantly watchful of
opportunities, in 1899 the fertile brain of Mr. Meyer conceived the idea of
developing a subsidiary interest in connection with the smelter property.
This resulted in the organization of the Southwest Chemical Company, while
later the plant was enlarged and the business reincorporated under the style
of the United Zinc & Chemical Company, with ]Mr. ^Meyer as president and
one of the heavy stockholders, his leading associates in the enterprise being
B. D. Rowe, of Kansas City, and John Greenough, of New York. It was Mr.
Meyer's knowledge of chemistry and his comprehensive understanding of the
mining industry in all of its ditferent phases' that suggested the establishment
and proved a strong feature in its success.

The company was organized with a capital of three and a half million
dollars and has two plants, one in Argentine and the other at lola, Kansas,
employment being furnished by the company to one thousand men. Mr.
Meyer devoted his energies largely during the last six years of his life to
the development of the business. In his capacity as a mining engineer and
a controlling spirit in enterprises that resulted from his knowedge along that
line, he contributed in no small degree to the expansion and material growth
of the we.st. and himself derived therefrom substantial benefits. He owned
valuable mining i)roperties in Colorado and other sections of the country
and also invested quite largely in real estate, having considerable property in
Kansas City, inchiding his residence at the corner of Forty-fourth street and
Warwick biMilc\;n'<l. wliich. l)y the consensus of pulilic (>|>iiii()ii. is acknowl-
edged the most beautiful home in Kansas City.

Mr. ^Nloyei- wa.^ married in Denver, Colorado, in 1878, to Miss Emma J.
Hixon, a daughter of John B. Hixon, of that state. They became the parents
of seven children, of whom five are living: Ruth, the wife of William Allen
Smith, of lola, Kan.sas: Alfred, Agnes, Henry and Pliilli]). the youngest now
eight years of age. The death of the husband and father occurred December
1, 1905, and while his loss was most deeply regretted in the city and in busi-
ness circles, it came with the greatest force to his family, for he was a devoted
husband and father. After becoming a resident of Kansas City he was most
actively and helpfuly associated Mith nmch that pertained to municipal

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 197

progress and improvement. He was a leading spirit in the movement ''to
make Kansas City beautiful," and was chosen president of the park board,
serving in that capacity when the system of parks and boulevards was planned.
One thoroughly familiar with the history of the city said of Mr, Meyer: "He
spent much time and money to advance the park plans ; he did this out of no
other motive than the upbuilding and progress of the city which he had
chosen as his permanent home. Mr. Meyer was always interested in parks
and his extensive travels gave him opportunities of seeing all of the famous
parks in the United States and many abroad.

A beautiful piece of boulevard in the southern part of the city has been
named Meyer road in his honor. His cooperation Avas never sought in vain
when the purpose was public improvement and he looked upon the exigencies
of the moment and the possibilities of the future and labored for later as
well as present generations. He was president of the Commercial Club in
1895 and 1896 and for several years served on its directorate. At different
times he was treasurer of the board of trustees of the Young Men's Christian
Association ; was president of the Provident Association ; was a member of
the board of trustees of the Children's Free Hospital; and a member of the
board of trustees of the First Congregational church. As few men have done,
he realized the responsibilities of wealth and acknowledged his individual
obligation. What he did arose from a sincere interest in his fellowmen.
The accumulation of wealth was never allowed to warp his kindly, generous
nature, but on the contrary his humanitarianism developed with the progress
of his success and his esthetic culture. Few men have enjoyed in so large
measure the respect, popularity and the honor that was accorded August
R. Meyer, and perhaps no better testimonial of his position can be given
than the fact that soon after his death the Commercial Club instituted a
movement for a memorial statue to be erected to his memory. A large fund
was subscribed and collected and a commission given to Daniel Chester
French, the eminent American sculptor, to execute a portrait study of heroic
size, which was placed in one of the public parks in the year 1908. Thus
until the stone shall crumble long ages hence Kansas City w'ill know of one
who was her benefactor and who contributed so largely to her improvement
and adornment.

JOHN CUTTER GAGE.

No history of the legal profession in Kansas City would be complete
without mention of John Cutter Gage, now one of the oldest practitioners
at the bar of Jackson county. Moreover, he was the first president of the
Kansas City Bar Association and also the Law Library Association and at one
time was president of the State Bar Association. His life record began at
Pelham, New Hampshire, April 20, 1835. The ancestry of the family is
traced back to John Gage, who came from England in 1630 and settled in
Boston. His father, Frye Gage, was a New England farmer and married

198 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Kesiah Cutter. The boyhood days of John Cutter Gage were spent on the
homestead farm, his time divided between the duties of the fields and the
work of the schoolroom until he had mastered the elementary branches of
English learning, when he entered Phillips Academy, where he prepared for
college, matriculating at Dartmouth in 1852. After completing the work
of the freshman and sophomore years in that institution he entered Harvard
College in 1855 and was graduated therefrom in 1856. Having determined
to make the practice of law his life work, he became a student in the office
•of S. A. Brown, then a leading attorney of Lowell, Massachusetts, and was
admitted to the bar in Boston in 1858.

In the following March Mr. Gage arrived in Kansas City, where he has
■now continuously practiced for forty-nine years, being one of the oldest as
well as ablest representatives of the legal fraternity here. In 1860 he be-
came a partner of William C. Woodson and in 18'66 entered into partnership
relations with William Doug, which continued until 1869. In 1870 he was
joined by Sanford D. Ladd in the practice of law and the admission of Charles
E. Small to the firm in 1878 led to the adoption of the firm name of Gage,
Ladd & Small. This is one of the strongest law firms of the city, having had
a continuous existence of thirty years while his association with Mr. Ladd
covers thirty-eight years. In his practice Mr. Gage has won a large percentage
of the cases that have been entrusted to him. He convinces by his concise
statements of law and facts rather than by word painting and so high is the
respect for his legal ability and integrity that his assertions in court are sel-
dom questioned seriously. Judges and clients also respect him for his care-
ful counsel. He is a man of most courteous manner and yet firm and un-
yielding in all that he believes to be right. Whatever he does is for the best
interests of his clients and for the honor of his profession and no man gives
to either a more unqualified allegiance or riper ability. His standing in the
profession is indicated by the fact that he was honored with the presidency
of the Kansas City Bar Association upon its formation and also of the Law
Library Association, while his position in the profession in the state was at-
tested by his selection for the presidency of the State Bar Assocation in 1884.
No man is more familiar with the personnel nor the history of judicial pro-
ceedings of the state than Mr. Gage, who has written many historical articles
upon the bench and bar of Missouri.

On the 26th of April, 1886, Mr. Gage was married to Miss Ida Bailey,
a daughter of Dr. Elijah Bailey, of Monroe couiily, Missouri, and they have
two children, John Bailey and Marion Manseur.

PHILIP KBAUS.

When a man has traveled far on life's journey it is a source of satis-
faction to his friends that in the evening of his days he can enjoy rest with-
out further recourse to labor. Nature seems to have intended that this should
be the case, for in youth mic is full of the energy and hope of early life, and in

PHILIP KRAUS.

PUB JC UBKARY

ASTOR. LENOX
TILDI N rc :r:)*,\TIONS

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 201

later years these qualities are directed by the sound judgment which results
from practical experience, and if one's labors be persistent and intelligently
directed there results a measure of success which makes it possible for the
individual to put aside business cares in his later years. Such has been the
course of Mr. Kraus, whose life of intense activity is now crowned with an
age of ease. He was born in Baden, Germany, in April 26, 1831, and came
to America in the spring of 1850. He was then a young man of nineteen
years, ambitious to make his way in the world and realizing also that ''there
is no excellence without labor." He had about twenty-five dollars when he
landed in America. He began selling oil cloths for tables — traveled through the
country on foot, and was thus engaged for four years, making money in that
venture. In 1854 he went to Madison, Wisconsin, where he and his brother
ran a hotel, there remaining until 1857, when Philip Kraus left that place
by boat and went down the river to St. Louis. From that point he proceeded
up the Missouri river to Kansas City, arriving here in May, 1857, when the
town was small and of little industrial or commercial importance. In the
early days of his residence here he knew every man engaged in business in
Kansas City. This seemed almost the last point of civilization before one ven-
tured upon the plains, where the Indians were numerous and often manifested
, open hostility toward the white race. Mr. Kraus, however, made it his busi-
ness to engage in trading with the red men, selling goods to the Shawnee
and Delaware Indians for three years, going out among them with wagons
in which he carried such goods as he knew they desired. He afterward estab-
lished a store at Shawnee, which he conducted until it was destroyed by fire in
1863. In that year he went to Fort Scott, Kansas, and also at Fort Smith,
and while in the state was forced into the service of the army, cutting trees,
etc. In 1865 he returned to Kansas Citv and in the vear 1866 became a resi-
dent of Holland, Clay county, Missouri, becoming closely identified with the
upbuilding of that place in pioneer times. He conducted a general store there,
assisted in establishing the postoffice and was postmaster at that point for
twenty-one years. Again he came to Kansfis City in 1871 and bought a corner
lot at Tracy and West Ninth street. Around this he built a wall and upon
the ground erected a small house, but in 1888 he began the erection of flats
there and added to the original number, until he now has twenty-three apart-
ments, ranging from three to six rooms each. Of the rental and care of this
property he and his son now have charge, but the latter is largely relieving
the father of the business management, and Mr. Kraus is thus enabled to
enjoy well earned rest. From time to time he made judicious and well placed
investment in property, owning considerable land in Clay county, including
two hundred acres near Birmingham. Through his purchase and sale of
real estate he made considerable money and thus, with a gratifying competence
to supply all his needs, is now enjoying life and the rest which should ever
crown earnest effort and long continued toil.

Mr. Kraus was married in Clay county to Miss Catherine Klamn in 1872,
and unto them were born two children, but the daughter died in early life.
The son, John P., was born in Harlem, Clay county, in 1873, and was edu-
cated in the Woodland public school of Kansas City and in the German

202 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

schools. He is now associated with his father in the management of busi-
ness interests, which are carefully conducted, and are bringing a gratifying
financial return annually. A well spent and honorable life has gained for
Mr. Kraus the respect and esteem of all with whom he has been brought
in contact, and he is well known in this part of the state as one whose efforts
in the upbuilding of the west have been effective and far-reaching.

ROBERT ALEXANDER LONG.

AVhen ambition is satisfied and every ultimate aim accomplished, satiety
follows, effort languishes and industry becomes futile. It is the man who is
not satisfied with present conditions who delights in the doing, who finds
pleasure in exerting his powers and in solving intricate problems that becomes
a forceful factor in the world's development. From early youth Robert Alex-
ander Long has been one of the world's workers and his success, so great as
to seem almost magical, is attributable directly to his own labors.

The rapid development of all material resources during the closing years
of the nineteenth century and the opening years of the twentieth has brought
business enterprises up from the day of small things to gigantic
proportions, where millions of dollars take the place of hundreds and where
men are required to handle thousands as carefully and as successfully as their
grandfathers handled hundreds. All the history of the world shows that to
grapple with new conditions, to fill breaches in all great crises men have been
developed and have stood ready to assume new and great responsibilities and
have discharged them well and profitably. Many youths now taking their first
lessons in practical business will work up gradually from one responsibility
to one higher and then to still higher ones, as R. A. Long has done, for what
he has accomplished others maj^ do. True his have been ''massive deeds and
great" in one sense and yet his entire accomplishment but represents the
fit utilization of the innate talents which were his.

His life record began in Shelby county, Kentucky, in December, 1850.
His father was an intensely practical, methodical and ambitious man, who
believed in doing not dreaming. There was, however, an imaginative spirit
in Robert A. Long that led him at times out of his farm life environment
into great future possibilities. He formed plans and looked forward to the
day when his lines of life would not hold him to the plow but when he would
become a forceful factor in great business undertakings. However, in his
boyhood and youth he was held down to the work of the fields and to the
acquirement of an education in the public schools, which he attended until
his seventeenth year, when necessity forced him to give his undivided atten-
tion to business, his services being needed on the old home farm. There he
continued to the age of twenty-two years, when his life broadened perceptibly
in its ]»(»>sibilities and outlook.

He came to Kansas City to visit his uncle, C. J. White, then cashier of
the Kan.sas City Savings Rank. Mr. White had a son, Robert, and Dr. J. B.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 203

Bell, president of the bank, had a son, Victor B. Bell. The three young men
were about of an age and in that summer they joined in a business enter-
prise which constituted the nucleus of the Long and Bell fortunes. R. A.
Long had saved a hundred or two dollars, the others had less but they had
credit at the Kansas City Savings Bank. Going to Columbus, Kansas, they
there established a lumber business, taking with them a carload of lumber.
Although Mr. Long had to some extent hitherto been regarded as somewhat
visionary, the practical side of his nature here developed with remarkable
rapidity. He had found a business that was congenial and one which offered
unlimited possibilities. The broad prairies of Kansas had no timber supply
and the young men realized that it would be a wise thing to establish lumber-
yards elsewhere in the newly developing state. After two years Mr. White
died but the firm of Long & Bell continued, constantly extending their busi-
ness until when Mr. Bell died two or three years ago their interests included
nearly out' hundred lumberyards through the we.--t and southwest, together
with enormous mill properties, nearly four hundred thousand acres of timber
land in Louisiana and Texas, railroad properties, a steamship line, coal mines,
general mercantile establishments and land agencies. The name of Long
is inseparably connected with the development of the lumber trade in the
^j; west and southwest. One of the secrets of his success was the fact that he
thoroughly acquainted himself with the business in every detail during his
early connection therewith. He continually sought out new lines for the
development of the trade and he took into his business several axioms or
rules and has lived up to them consistently. These include honesty and
sincerity of purpose; a firm belief that a man should make himself felt in
his community and that he should acknowledge always that he owes much
to that community.

Each year saw an increase in the business of the firm — a new yard
opened, a new mill built, a new store established — until the volume of trade
annually reaches into the millions. One of the most recent undertakings
of the firm is the erection of what is known as the R. A. Long building at
Tenth street and Grand avenue. In its construction one of the air castles
of his earlier life has taken substantial form and it is a notable fact that
most of the plans and hopes and dreams of his earlier years have found ful-
fillment in his business life. The Long building was erected at a cost of more
than a million dollars and is one of the fine office buildings of the country.
It is absolutely complete and thoroughly equipped, being supplied with every
modern convenience. This building is characteristic of Mr. Long in two im-
portant particulars: permanency and organization. He w^anted a building
in which future improvements should be anticipated and he sent his agent
all over the country to study office buildings and everything that could be
used in one. Nothing but the best material went into it and none but the
best plans was utilized. In speaking of his success Mr. Long attributes much
of it to permanency, which he declares ''is the strength of any organization
and without it there can be no loyalty." He has desired and won the loyalty
of all employes, a fact which is indicated by the use of the words "we" and
"ours" that are always heard from the representatives of the company. More-

204 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

over it has been a plan of Mr. Long's to have some one always ready to fill
another's place if needed. He wished his employes to feel a personal interest
in the business, to know that his success meant theirs, and to this end he
began to distribute stock among his trusted employes. Sometimes they had
enough money to pay for it; very often they bought it on long time and in
several notable instances the stock returned such profits that it paid for itself
and so really was a gift to the owners.

Among the stockholders who have thus become interested in the business
through this plan of Mr. Long's are: C. B. Sweet, vice president of the
Long-Bell Lumber Company, who has been with the company for twenty-
one years; F. J. Bannister, secretary and confidential man, fourteen years;
J. H. Foresman, retail department, sixteen years; M. B. Nelson, wholesale,
nine years; and numerous mill managers, whose terms of service range from
six to fifteen years. All own stock in the company, or its allied concerns.
The scope of his activity and of his interests is indicated somewhat by the
fact that he is president of the Long-Bell Lumber Company of Kansas City ;
the Rapids Lumber Company, Limited, of Woodworth, Louisiana; the Ryder-
King Lumber Company of Bonami, Louisiana; the Hudson Lumber Com-
pany of De Ridder, Louisiana; the Globe Lumber Company, Limited, of
Yellow Pine, Louisiana; the Minnetonka Lumber Company, the Fidelity;
Land & Improvement Company, the Fidelity Fuel Company and the Long-
Bell Railway System. He is also a large stockholder in the Weed Lumber
Company of Weed, California, and is interested in the coal trade in the v\'est.

Mr. Long is an excellent orator and debater and in his discussion of
any subject shows a thorough mastery of the point under consideration.
While preeminently a practical business man, he has never narrowed his
life down to commercialism. He is a thinker and a student of the signs of
the times and of the great questions bearing upon the economic, sociological
and political history of the country. He is frequently heard in public dis-
cussion of some important question, not only in Kansas City but in other
parts of the country. lie says : "Every big business man should write a paper
or make a speech at least twice a year, on some live subject, not necessarily
connected with his business, that would require investigation. Investigation
means more knowledge and knowledge is an a.-^set." This idea ha- been car-
ried out by Mr. Long's employes in Kansas City. Recently they organized a
Good Fellowship association, in which Mr. Long immediately applied for
membership and in which he takes great interest. The purpose is to promote
acquaintance and good felloAvship among the employes and at each weekly
meeting topics of interest outside the business are discussed. As few men
have done, he seems to realize the responsibility of riches, nor does he believe
that helping his fellowmen consists in moneyed gifts. He gives of himself,
his time, his talents and his learning. As he expressed it to a friend, "No
man will get much out of life who lives wholly for himself. The man who
shuts himself away from the world and thinks that he and his family circle
are all that matters will find he's in a mighty narrow circle."

His aid is freely given when sought in behalf of public movements and
his contributions to charity have been most generously but unostentatiously

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 205

made. He was among the first to subscribe a large sum for the erection of
the Young Men's Christian Association building and also contributed liberally
toward the Independence Boulevard Christian church. In fact he has been
connected with every public enterprise for the city's advancement since he
came to Kansas City sixteen years ago. He is in vital sympathy wdth young
men and women and with the cause of their education. His life is a benefit
and stimulus to them and a lesson to all. He finds his recreation in horse-
back riding and is the owner of some of the finest horses in the country. In
an analyzation of the life work of Mr. Long with its splendid accomplish-
ments it will be noticed that one of his rules for self-government has been
that concerning punctuality. He never fails to keep an engagement and
keep it at the appointed time. A man of indefatigable enterprise and fertility
of resource, he has carved his name deeply on the record of the commercial
and industrial history of the west, which owes much of its advancement to
his eff"orts. The world needs more toilers, town builders and philanthropists
like Robert Alexander Long. He is a man among men in his eminent suc-
cess, his broad views and his upright life.

ALBERT G. SMITH.

Albert G. Smith, deceased, who figured in business circles in Kansas
City as a successful merchant, was a member of one of the pioneer families
here, identified with the interests of the locality from 1856. His life record
began in Buft'alo, New York, October 13, 1813, his parents being Emery and
Louise Smith, who were also natives of Buffalo, where the father engaged in
business as a merchant tailor until 1856. when he came to the we.st, settling
in Kansas City. Here he invested his money in real estate and practically
lived retired, but his residence here was of comparatively short duration,
being terminated by death. The mother afterward made her home with her
children until her demise, which occurred at the home of her son Charles in
Kansas City in 1896. Her son Sylve-ster T. Smith became one of the most
prominent railroad men in the west, being general superintendent of the
Union Pacific Railroad here for many years. A few years ago he retired
from active business life and is now a resident of Chicago.

In the schools of his native city Albert G. Smith acquired his education
and when thirteen years of age accompanied his parents on their westward
removal to Kansas City, where, in a short time, he began work in the office
of the Union Pacific Railroad Company with his brother. He was soon pro-
moted to general freight agent here and continued in that position for several
years, when the company transferred him to Minneapolis, Kansas, and there
made him general agent, in which capacity he was retained until 1888, when
he resigned and came again to Kansas City. Here he turned his attention
to the real-estate business, in which he continued for a few years, when he
entered the field of merchandising, establishing a grocery store at the corner
of Fifteenth and Jackson, where he owned two large store rooms, one being

206 JrllSTORY OF KANSAS CITY

stocked with groceries, while in the other he conducted a coal and feed
business, continuing in both lines throughout his remaining days and meet-
ing with very desirable success.

While in Minneapolis, Kansas, Mr. Smith was married to Miss Kittie
Markley, a native of that place and a daughter of Israel and Mary Markley,
who were pioneers of Minneapolis, w^here they settled in 1856. There Mr.
Markley has since engaged in the stock business and he and his wife have
been well known and prominent residents there for more than a half century.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Smith was born a daughter. Alberta Markley Smith, who
makes her home with her mother. The husband and fathei died March
29, 1895, his death being deeply regretted by all who knew him, for he had
proved himself a valuable addition to commercial circles here and in all
his dealings showed the strictest fidelity to principles of justice and integrity.
In politics he was a stanch democrat but never an ofhce seeker. He be-
longed to the ]VIasonic fraternity, was an exemplary member of the order and
enjoyed the full confidence of his brethren of the craft. At the time of
his death, which came as a severe blow to wife and daughter — for he was ever
devoted to their welfare and happiness — the family were residing on ^lyrtle
street. In 1902 Mrs. Smith purchased a nice residence at No. 3031 Park
avenue, where she and her daughter now reside, their home being a favorite
resort for their many friends.

THOMAS BLACKWELL TOMB.

Thomas Blackwell Tomb, living in Kansas City, with large cattle and
landed interests throughout the west, was born in Lycoming county, Pennsyl-
vania, October 25, 1840. His parents were Benjamin and Ann (Leonard)
Tomb, also natives of the Keystone state, and the latter was a member of an
old Quaker family. The father served in the war of 1812, and after the
cessation of hostilities was for twenty-five years a pilot on the Susquehanna
river. Subsequently he successfully conducted a lumber business on the same
river until 1842, w^hen he removed to Seneca county, Ohio, and became con-
nected with large financial enterprises. For thirty years he was president and
manager of leading financial institutions and his name figured prominently
in moneyed circles, while his opinion was received as conclvLsive upon any
disputed question relating thereto. He was one of the founders of the Arnold
& Tomb Bank at Tiffin, afterward conducted under the firm style of Tomb,
Huss & Company. In the early days of the Civil war this was reorganized as
the First National Bank of Tiffin, one of the earliest formed under the new
banking law. Mr. Tomb continued as its president until he retired from
active business life. He died in 1885, and his wife passed away the follow-
ing year. Of their seven children six are living.

Thomas Blackwell Tomb, the third child and eldest son, was educated
in the public schools of Tiffin. Ohio, and when eighteen years of age entered
upon a clerkship in his father's bank, becoming a silent partner at the age of

MARIA G. TOMB.

B; ARY

ASTOR. LENOX
TILDKN FCrjNBATIONS

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 209

twenty-one. When the bank was reorganized he became vice president and
assistant cashier. After seventeen years' connection with this institution his
attention was directed to a chance to create a new industry. Two practical
mechanics, owners of patents on new devices for wagons, were without means
to manufacture, and Mr. Tomb provided the capital to build two factories at
Tiffin, Ohio, for the manufacture of bent hounds, or the fifth wheel. Mr.
Tomb became manager of the sales department and extended the business
throughout the United States. After three years' prosperous connection there-
with he sold his interest to engage in the ranch cattle business with Benjamin
A. and George Sheidley, of Kansas City, acting as financial and business man-
ager of the concern. During a part of the time he made his home in Chicago.
He became a partner in 1881, and in 1883 the firm was incorporated as the
Sheidley Cattle Company of Kansas City, the stockholders being George and
William Sheidley, T. B. Tomb, R. C. Lake and D. H. Clark. The business
was capitalized for five hundred thousand dollars, each paying in one-fifth
in cash. Mr. Tomb was treasurer until he sold his stock in 1896. In the
meantime he had taken up his residence in Kansas City, and after withdraw-
ing from the Sheidley Cattle Company he incorporated a similar undertaking
under the name of Lake, Tomb & Company. Of this he has since been the
president. The firm owns large cattle ranchas in Lynn and Terry counties,
Texas, on the Moreau river in South Dakota, and Big Dry, Montana, and
their operations in the cattle industry are very extensive. In 1899 Mr. Tomb
became one of the incorporators of the Tomb-Winter Land Company of Kan-
sas City. This company has been interested in property aggregating more
than two million dollars. Mr. Tomb was also interested in the Goodrich
addition, which comprised eighty acres and which in 1876 was bought for
seven hundred and twenty thousand dollars, and sold in 1886 for over two
million dollars, netting the projectors a handsome profit. A wealthy cousin,
Jacob Tomb, who endowed the Tomb Institute at Port Deposit, Maryland,
with two millions of dollars and who hits been a liberal benefactor of the
government Indian school at Carlisle, often entrusted T. B. Tomb \Adth
large amounts for investment, and he is regarded as one of the most promi-
nent and able financial agents of this section of the country.

On the 24th of October 1872, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Tomb
and Maria G. Harbeson, of Cincinnati, Ohio, a descendant of a family of di&
tinction of colonial days and also of Revolutionary war farme. A paternal au'
cestor, Captain Copeland, was a member of the colonial congress. Her great-
great-grandfather, Captain Davis Bevin, commanded the man-of-war Holker
and served under Wa.shington at Brandywine in 1877. In recognition of his
courage he was presented with a sword, which is still in possession of the
family. Mrs. Tomb's parents were Charles E. and Ann Elizabeth Harbeson.
The father, a native of Pennsylvania, was a capitalist, interested in many im-
portant enterprises, including lead mines at Dubuque, Iowa, and a large com-
mercial house at Cincinnati, Ohio. In the latter city he passed away in 1866
and his wife, long surviving, died November 3, 1893. In the maternal line
Mrs. Tomb is descended from Captain James Kearney, of Virginia, and
Jacob Van Doren, of New Jersey, both connected with the American army in

210 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

the Revolutionary war. The Van Doren family is closely connected to the
house of Orange of Holland. Richard and Maria (Van Doren) Gartrell,
parents of Mr.*. Harbeson, removed from A^irginia to Palmyra, Missouri,
about 1830. Mrs. Tomb was educated at Miss Eastman's Select School in
Philadelphia. While attending there she was a classmate of Ida Saxton, who
became the wife of President McKinley, and their friendship and the inter-
change of visits continued until the death of Mrs. McKinley.

Mr. Tomb is a Mason, holding membership in Tiffin (Ohio), Lodge,
No. 77, A. F. & A. M., and Seneca Chapter, R. A. M.. while in the con-
sistory of Kansas City he has attained the thirty-second degree. Both Mr.
and Mrs. Tomb are devoted and active members of Grace Episcopal church,
in which he has long served as a vestryman, while toward the erection of
the fine church edifice he w^as a most liberal contributor. He already has
manifested a most helpful spirit in his relations to his fellowmen. Re-
sponsive to the needs of those he deems worthy, he has materially assisted
many and his counsel and financial aid have contributed largely to the es-
tablishment of the success of many young men in Kansas City and in the
regions where his cattle interests lie. He has manifested a paternal interest
in his employes, thoroughly appreciating faithful service on their part and
rewarding it by promotion as opportunity offers. Like her husband, Mrs.
Tomb has been prominent in church and in charitable work and is well
known in various societies and social organizations. She has been a leader
in mission work and other departments of church activity, is a member of
the Society of Colonial Dames and Elizabeth Benton Chapter of the Daugh-
ters of the American Revolution. In 1899 she was elected a delegate to the
national convention of the latter at "Washington, D. C. She is one of the
directors in the board of managers of the Kansas City Atheneum and chair-
man of its home department and a director in the AVoman's Auxiliary of
the Manufacturers Association of Kansas City, the largest and most im-
portant woman's club in the Missouri valley. In these and other organiza-
tions she is very active, while her kindliness and sympathy are many times
displayed when the opportunity offers to assist another. The poor and needy
find in her a friend and her contributions to charity have been most gen-
erous. Both Mr. and Mrs. Tomb hold high ideals concerning the responsibil-
ities of wealth and are daily putting into practice their views upon this
subject.

MATTHEW BUTLER.

America is justly proud of the fact that the great majority of her citizens
are "self-made men" — men who at the outset of business life had little capital
but possessed strength and determination, ambition and energy, whereby they
advanced from a humble place to one of success and local prominence. To
this class belongs Matthew I'utler. He wa.>; born across the water but while
still feeling a deep interest and love for his native land, he has a still stronger
attachment for his adopted country and the stars and stripes — the symbol

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 211

of American liberty and union. His birth occurred in Lancashire, England,
September 3, 1821.

His father, Richard Butler, aho a native of that place, followed the trade
of carpentering and building throughout his entire life. He married Miss
Jane Taylor and unto them were born thirteen children, of whom four died
in early life. In the year 1832 the father came with his family, consisting
of wife and nine children, to the new world, thinking to enjoy better business
opportunities, for the reports which he heard concerning America were most
favorable. He left England on a sailing vessel, the Six Sisters of Preston.
Before his emigration he had become a lumber dealer and this was a lumber-
ship bound for Quebec to bring back a load of lumber. They w^ere six
weeks in making the voyage -and after landing, the father proceeded up the
St. Lawrence river to Montreal. The family did not know" where they would
locate but decided that it would be some place in New York. They accord-
ingly took passage on a boat on Lake Champlain for Whitehall. The father
and the older children by this time had become dissatisfied with traveling on
the water and decided to walk the remainder of the distance, so the five
eldest children, four daughters and Matthew Butler, who was the youngest
of the five, started on foot when they were yet many miles from Whitehall.
The father got only as far as Mechanicsville, New York, when he was taken
ill with cholera and died, leaving a widow and family of small children.
After reaching Whitehall the five eldest children took a canal boat and pro-
ceeded to ]\Iechanicsville, New York, where they aw^aited the arrival of the
mother and smaller children. Mechanicsville was a manufacturing town
and the daughters there went to work in the cotton mills, while Matthew
Butler accepted any work that he could find to do to aid in the support of
the family. Eventually he secured a place on a farm at Ballston, Saratoga
county, New York, and there continued in farm labor and also attended
school as opportunity offered. He was th^n but eleven years of age. He
continued at farm labor for three years, after which he began learning the
coach-making trade in Troy and continued to follow that pursuit in New
York until after the war.

Mr. Butler was married in Troy, New York, in 1854, to Miss Mary A.
Van Vort, who was born on the Hudson river in the Empire state. At that
time big changes were going on in the railroad w^orld, many railroad system.-*
being promoted and lines built. The Great Western Railroad was begun in
Canada and there was much activity in all departments of the railroad ser-
vice. Mr. Butler was engaged in Albany in building railroad cars for the
New York Central when he was offered a position by the Great Western to go
to Hamilton, Ontario, to superintend the building of cars for that company.
He accepted the proffered position and remained in Canada for several years.
On leaving the railroad service he engaged in the foundry business at Brant-
ford, Canada, and in 1865 removed to Buffalo, New York, where he resided
until about 1878 or 1879. At that time he came to Kansas City and with
his sons-in-law engaged in the real-estate business for a short time. He has
led a very busy, useful and active life and while now numbered among the
men of affluence of Kansas City, his success is attributable entirely to his own

212 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

labors. While in the foundry business in Canada he owned a number of
"stores throughout that section of the country, and in all his interests he has
displayed an aptitude for successful management, combined with that keen
discernment which is one of the indispensable elements in a successful busi-
ness career.

As the years passed three children were added to the family of Mr. and
Mrs. Butler: Nellie J., the eldest, is the wife of J. W. Crerman, of Kansas City,
and has two children, Roswell and Clifford; Ilattie C. is the wife of Lucius
George Shepard, living on Garfield street of Kansas' City, and they have three
sons, Howard B., Matthew C. and Ralph B. ; Richard, residing at No. 822
Euclid street, married Kitty George, of Buffalo, New York, and has three
children, W. Shelby, Roland and Hattie May.

Since the organization of the republican party Mr. Butler has been one
of its stalwart champions. While in Canada he was active in political circles
and there served in the city council as alderman. He is a member of the Old
Gentlemen's Riding Club and in the organization takes much interest. He
has been a very temperate man throughout his entire life in every way. He
has never used tobacco in any form and his life history proves the fact that
nature is kindly to those who do not abuse her laws. He has now passed the
eighty-sixth milestone on life's journey but seems a man of much younger
years. Energetic and diligent in business, he has attained a gratifying and
creditable measure of success. Thrown upon his own resources at the early
age of eleven years, owing to his father's death, the necessities of the situation
developed in him his latent powers and possibilities, and as the years passed
he grew in business .strength and resourcefulness, ever making the best of his
opportunities and thus passing many another on the highway of life who,
perhaps, started out amid more advantageous surroundings.

FAY R. MOULTON.

Fay R. Moulton is the junior member of the W. S. Moulton Company,
investment brokers at Kansas City. He was l)orii in Marion, Kansas, April
7, 1876, there spent the days of his boyhood and youth and in the acquire-
ment of his education passed through consecutive grades in the public schools
until in 1895 he finished his high school course. Throughout the follow-
ing year he attended Hedding College at Aljingdoii. Illinois, where he pur-
sued a preparatory course, and in 1896 ho entered the State University of
Kansas, from which he was graduated with the class of 1900, winning the
degree of Bachelor of Arts. The smnmcr following his graduation wils spent
in travel through Europe, and on his return for some months he represented
his father in certain business enterprises in Kansas. In February, 1901,
however, he went to the east and entered the law department of Yale Col-
lege, graduating therefrom with the class of 1903. He then returned home
and, successfully passing the required law examination, was admitted to

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 213

the bar. Becoming associated with his father in the investment business, the
W. S. Moulton Company was formed, and since that time Mr. Moulton of
this review has largely assumed the burdens and responsibilities of an im-
portant and growing business, being now the active spirit in the business
entei-prises. He has made a close study of the money market and of the
opportunities for investment, and few men are better informed concerning
the financial condition in this part of the country than Mr. Moulton.

While attending the Kansas State University Mr. Moulton wi\s a leader
in all athletic sports, also while a student at Yale, and while there he be-
came a member of the New York City Athletic Club. He was captain of the
track team for one year at the Kansas State University, and was also man-
ager of the football team for one year. On the occasion of the second meet
for the Olympic games in Athens, Greece, in 1906, he was chosen as a mem-
ber of the American "games committee, and in the selection of athletes to
represent this country at the contest was chosen as one of a number to up-
hold American interests, on which occasion the honors w^ere carried off by
the representatives of the United States. Mr. Moulton winning second place
in the one hundred meters race here. He is a prominent and popular mem-
ber of the Greek letter fraternities, the Phi Gamma Delta and the Phi Delta
Phi. Interested in the political situation of the country, Mr. Moulton is a
republican, and in Kansas City is numbered among its best known and
most prominent young business men, whose future seems particularly bright,
owing to the ability, enterprise and firm purpose that he has already dis-
played in the conduct of important business interests.

WILLIAM TELL JOHNSON.

William Tell Johnson, a lawyer of Kansas City, w^as born August 4,
1848, at Osceola, Missouri, a son of Judge Waldo P. Johnson, an eminent
lawyer and statesman. His more specifically literary education was acquired
in the University of Notre Dame in Indiana, from which he was graduated
with the class of 1868. He read law under the direction of his father, and
successfully passing the required examination, w^as admitted to the bar at
Butler, Missouri, on the 29th of June, 1872. Having thus qualified for prac-
tice, he located at Osceola, where he remained until 1879, when he removed
to Kansas City. In the meantime, in 1874, he formed a partnership with
John H. Lucas, and in 1880 William H. Lucas was admitted to the firm
under the style of Johnson & Lucas. For several years Mr. Johnson was
connected with nearly all of the important cases tried in St. Clair county.

In Kansas City he has devoted his attention largely to corporation law,
in which connection he has been the legal representative of the .John I.
Blair estate, the Kansas City Cable Railway Company and many others.
Wlhile now specializing in his profession, he has broad and comprehensive
knowledge of the fundamental principles of law and would undoubtedly
attain success in any department of jurisprudence into which he might wish

214 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

to direct his energies. He is quick in the solution of the problems of cor-
poration law, which are becoming more and more intricate with the com-
plexity of business interests, and is regarded as a wise counselor and safe
advocate. Outside the strict path of his profession Mr. Johnson is also well
known in business circles because of his close connection as an investor with
railroad interests, street railways and banks.

On the 15th of September, 1885, occurred the marriage of William Tell
Johnson and Miss Agnes M. Harris, a daughter of Dr. Edwin E. Harris, of
St. Clair county, Missouri, who became a surgeon in the Confederate army
during the Civil war and died in the service. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have
two daughters and a son, Margaret, Robert and Mary. They are well known
socially, having an extensive circle of friends in this city. Mr. Johnson is
a communicant of the Roman Catholic church, and through his political
:allegiance endorses the principles and policy of the old-fashioned democ-
jacy.

PETER SODEN.

When the complete history of Kansas City and its upbuilding shall have
been written there will be no name that figures more honorably on its pages
than that of Peter Soden, who dates his residence in Kansas City from 1855
and who in 1852 came to this county. For more than half a century there-
fore he has been, associated with the progress of Missouri's western metropolis
and has contributed in substantial measure to its upbuilding through his
connection with railroad construction and with building operations here.

Mr. Soden was born in County Cavan, Ireland, June 24, 1830, and com-
ing to America when a young man of eighteen years, settled in New York
in 1848. It was the favorable reports which he had heard concerning the
opportunities of the new world that led him to cross the Atlantic, for his
financial resources were very limited and he felt that he had comparatively
small chance to win success or work his way upward in a country hampered
by ca.ste, class, precedent and custom. He knew that honest endeavor brings
its reward on this side of the Atlantic and that he has ever been faithful
is indicated in the fact that in his first position he remained for four years.
"but the west called him and he responded. It was a great, wild district but
it had chances that could not be secured in the older and more tliickly set-
tled east and Mr. Soden was willing to make the sacrifice of living on the
frontier away from the comforts of the cities if he could in the course of
years gain a place among the men of affluence. In 1852 he arrived in Jack-
son county, Missouri, and for a short time was a resident of Independence,
which town was then of more relative im))ortance tlian Kansas City, it being
the starting point for the emigrants and the freighters who made their way
across the plains to the west and southwest.

Later Mr. Soden went to Liberty, Mis.<()urj and was employed at the
arsenal of the T"^nited States government there for about three years. In

PETER SODEN.

j-'ui^^ - . Ji'ARY

ASTOR. LENOX
TILDFN fv. ;i:» TION=.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 217

1855 he became a resident of Kansas City and for more than a half century
he has been identified with its interests and has been closely associated with
its progress. Here he began business for himself as a contractor, and since
that time he has had much to do with the work of improvement in different
parts of the city. He was one of the pioneer contractors of Kansas City
and is certainly one of the oldest representatives of the business here, hav-
ing for fifty-three years been associated with its building interests. He
opened some of the first) streets laid out in Kansas City and which have
proven among the most important thoroughfares of this metropolis, includ-
ing Main, Delaware and Wyandotte streets. In 1860 he entered upon a
contract to construct that portion of the Missouri Pacific Railway extending
through Jackson county and was one of the pioneer railroad contractors
here. Since that time his operations have covered important portions of
the Cameron road, the Missouri River Railroad, the Missouri Pacific Railway
and its branches. For a long period he was closely associated with railroad
building and during the latter part of that time confined his energies almost
exclusively to furthering the interests of the Missouri Pacific Railway in its
building operations.

At the present writing Mr. Soden is devoting his time almost exclusively
to real-estate investments and as a speculative builder has been instrumental
in changing unsightly vacancies into attractive residence districts. Pre-
viously, however, during the period of his railway building, he riprapped
the Missouri river from the mouth of the Kaw to the old Lykins warehouse
at the foot of Third street in 1870. This was an important improvement,
which had marked influence on the growth and prosperity of the city. In
1861, when railroad building was suspended throughout this part of the
country owing to the progress of the Civil war, Mr. Soden engaged in freight-
ing between Kansas City and Colorado and so continued until the spring
of 1864, when he resumed the construction of the Missouri Pacific Railroad.
He is prominently known as a contractor and builder and his efforts in
this direction have been a forceful element in opening up the west and south-
west and in promoting the improvement and growth of Kansas City.

In 1863 Mr. Soden was elected and served as first lieutenant of Com-
pany H of the Seventy-seventh Regiment of INIissouri State Militia and from
Governor Gamble received his commission, w^hich he yet retains as a souve-
nir of that time. This regiment held itself in readiness for active duty to
protect home interests during the war, and when the war closed Mr. Soden
resumed his building operations, which have been quite exten.sive and al-
most uniformly successful. His investments have been made as the result
of mature consideration and have had sound business principles for their
basis. Many notew^orthy improvements have been carried forw'ard under
his supervision or as the result of his energy and sagacity. From time to
time he has embraced opportunity for becoming owner of valuable property
and now has realty at the northwest corner of Walnut street and Missouri
avenue, is also owner of the Commercial Hotel block at Walnut and Eleventh
streets, of the Barnaby building on Main street between Eleventh and
Twelfth streets, of Nos. 912 and 914 Main street at the Junction, together

218 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Avith other valuable property. His present home was built in the summer
of 1907.

In 1865 Mr. Soden was married to Miss Delia Lackett, of Kansas City,
and has a son and daughter living. His eldest son, James, while pursuing
his education in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, w'as taken ill and died. His
other son, John W., now largely superintending his father's business inter-
ests, was married to Miss Walsh and has one child, Kathleen Irene. Eliza-
beth is the wife of John Hackel of Kansas City and they have one child,
Verneta Rose.

Mr. Soden wa^ for a half century a member of the Cathedral but on
his removal to his present home transferred his membership to the Church
of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. He is an independent voter but a citizen
whose cooperation has long been counted upon as a factor in movements of
public moment. He is numbered among Kansas City's pioneers. Yew busi-
ness men have longer remained within its borders and perhaps none have been
so clos'ely associated with the gradual development and progress of the county
as Mr. Soden. His life record may well serve as a source of encouragement
to others, showing what can be accomplished by determined, persistent effort,
by a ready utilization of opportunity and by that sound judgment which
develops through the use of one's inherent powers in adapting the Lessons
which life daily brings.

HARRY P. CHILD.

Harry P. Child belongs to the group of distinctive representative busi-
ness men who have been the pioneers in inaugurating and building up the
chief industries of this section of the country. He is now connected with
various extensive and important business interests of the west, chief of these
being the Kansas City Stock Yards. He first came to the city in 1859 — a
youth of eleven years — to return ten years later as a young man entering
upon his life's work. From that time his advancement has been rapid and
those who know aught of the extensive business annually conducted at the
stock yards recognize in him a large factor in its development.

A native of Cincinnati, Ohio, he was born October 2, 1848, a son of Dr.
Abel L. and Rebecca (Coates) Child. In the paternal line he is descended
from Puritan ancestry, his father being a native of Vermont, who removed
to Ohio in 1843. His mother, who was born in Pennsylvania, was of Quaker
parentage. She died in his infancy and he was adopted by her sister, Mrs.
J. L. Mitchencr, who for the remainder of her life was all to him that a
mother could be. The removal of the Mitchencr family to Monmouth, Illinois,
occiu'rod when Mr. Child was six years of age and he there resided from 1(S54
until 1859, when the family came to Kansas City. Two years later he became
a resident of Chicago, where he lived until 1869, his time being divided be-
tween the acquirement of an education in the public schools and a knowledge
of the printer's trade. He served as compositor on the Chicago Evening Jour-

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 219

nal but fate held in store for him other things and on the day that the
Chicago Stock Yards were opened he became one of its employes, filling va-
rious positions from that year, 1865, until 1869. He then returned to Kansas
City and for two years was engaged with his uncle in the cattle shipping busi-
ness. When the Kansas City Stock Yards were opened in 1871 he became
connected with the company which was at the head of the enterprise, and
was appointed yard master. His previous experience in the Chicago yards,
his close application, his capability and hie laudable ambition, secured him
promotion from time to time, and as assistant superintendent, superintendent
and assistant general manager he has since been connected with the yards,
filling the last named position for several years. In the discharge of his duties
he has displayed keen foresight, excellent executive ability and unfaltering
energy, which have gained him rank with the leading business men of Kansas
City. He is also a director and the vice president of the Safety Savings &
Loan Association here.

On the 11th of May, 1881, Mr. Child was married to Miss Lillian M.
Peirce, of Kansas City, who w^as born in Ohio in 1852. Her parents were
Mr. and Mrs. Edgar T. Peirce, who also were of Quaker descent. Mr. Child's
beautiful and tasteful home in Kansas City is supplied with all the appoint-
ments and adornments that indicate refinement and culture. One of the finest
libraries of the city attests the literary taste of the owner, and the fine arts
add their delights to the pleasures that are found at his fireside. His religious
faith is indicated by his membership in the Christian Science church.

PETER D. RIDENOUR.

Peter D. Ridenour is a member of the most extensive wholesale grocery
house west of the Mississippi river, and his present prominent position in
comniercial circles has been attained through unremitting labor, close appli-
cation and the execution of well defined plans. His start in the business
world was a most humble one but his recognition and utilization of oppor-
tunity has brought him to the eminent place that he now occupies.

He was born May 5, 1831, in Union county, Indiana, and in his veins
flows tlie blood of Dutch, Scotch and German ancestry. The line is traced
back to Nicholas Ridenour, who in 1739 came from Rotterdam, Holland,
to America with his family, landing at Philadelphia. He settled in what
is now Washington county, Maryland, near Hagerstown, where he resided
until his death. His eldest son, Nicholas Ridenour, also reared his family
in that neighborhood and one of his sons, Jacob Ridenour. the father of
Peter Ridenour, was born in 1770. Having arrived at years of maturity he
wedded Margaret Dorcas and their eldest son, Samuel, was born in 1793. In
1802 Peter Ridenour with his family removed to Hamilton county, Ohio,
and two years later to Preble county, that state, establishing his home about
four miles from Oxford, where he carried on general agricultural pursuits.
He had a family of nine sons and nine daughters, of whom Samuel, the

220 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

eldest soil, was married in 1819 to Mi&s Barbara Miller, a daughter of Tobias
and Sarah (Henderson) Miller. On leaving Ohio they removed to Union
county, Indiana, settling near the state line about a half mile south of the
present village of College Corner. In the midst of dense beech woods and
from the native timber thev built a comfortable home, where their remain-
ing days Avere passed, the death of Samuel Ridenour occurring in 1850,
while his wife survived until 1883. They were buried in the cemetery at
the old homestead, being laid to rest in the midst of a community in which
they had long been respected citizens. They had sixteen children, eleven
daughtei-s and five sons, of whom twelve reached years of maturity.

Of this number Peter I). Ridenour was the fifth son and seventh child.
His youth was a period of earnest and unremitting toil. He assisted his
father in clearing the land from the timber, splitting rails, chopping wood
and grubbing up the stumps. He had the opportunity of attending school
for two or three months each winter, the little temple of learning being a
log structure with puncheon floor. The methods of instruction were almost
as primitive as the building but there Mr. Ridenour mastered the rudiments
of an education and laid the foundation for the success which has come
to him in later years. In the winter of 1849-50, attracted by the discovery
of gold in California, he started for the Pacific coast by way of the Isthmus
of Panama, hoping to achieve a fortune in the mines. After a year de-
\otedoto the search for gold he returned by way of Central America to New
Orleans, thence up the Mississippi river to Cincinnati, by stage to his old
home. The father had died during his absence and the elder brothers had
started out in life for themselves'. For a few months Mr. Ridenour assisted
his mother in the management and care of the home farm and in Janu-
ary, 1852, went to Cincinnati, Ohio, where he entered upon his mercantile
career as junior member of the grocery firm of Moore & Ridenour. The
following year, however, he sold out and came to the middle west, looking
for a place to make a home. At that time there were no railroads west
of the Mississippi river but the tide of emigration was steadily flowing
westward. After Mr. Ridenour had spent one winter (1855-56) in northern
Iowa he concluded he was too far north and drove to Leavenworth. Kansas,
and to Kansas City in December. 1856. In the spring of 1857 he went to
Kansas, then in a very unsettled condition and spent the year traveling
through the state, making his headquarters, however, at Lawrence. He was
pleased with the country and decided to remain.

Mr. Ridenour made preparations for having a home of his own in the
west but returned to Ohio, where he was married at Xenia. to ^liss Sarah
L. Beatty. In March he took his bride to Lawrence, where he resided until
the spring of 1880, remaining for a long period one of the leading and
influential business men of that place. In the spring of 1858, at Lawrence,
he became acquainted with Harlow W. Baker, of Maine, and they entered
into a partnership for the conduct of a grocery store under the firm name
of Ridenour & Baker, which constituted the nucleus of the present extensive
wholesale business. A few years later three of Mr. Baker's brothers came
from Maine, while Samurl Ridenour. a brother of Peter Ridenour. came

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 221

from Ohio. Three branch houses were then established, these being con-
ducted by Samuel Ridenour and the three Baker brothers, while the parent
house at Lawrence, Kansas, continued under the management of the original
partners until 1878, when all the Kansas houses were closed and the busi-
ness consolidated into the present establishment at Kansas City. Death has
caused various changes in the partnership, E. W. Baker having died in 1876,
Alden A. Baker in 1903, and Harlow W. Baker, one of the founders of the
business, on the 2oth of March, 1904. He and Mr. Ridenour had been
associated in business together for forty-six years, their relations remaining
mutually profitable throughout this period. Their store was entirely de-
stroyed by fire when Quantrell sacked and burned the city of Lawrence, and
they had to .^tart over without a dollar but they had good credit and an
untarnished business reputation and were not long in recuperating from their
losses. Their relations were always agreeable, their business successful and
they remained like brothers to each other until the ties between them were
severed by death.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Ridenour were born six children, of whom two died
in childhood, while four reached adult age. Those .still living are: Kate,
now the wife of John C. Lester; Edward M. ; Alice B., the wife of E. A. Ray-
mond: and Ethel B., at home. There are also eleven grandchildren. John
C. Lester, Edward M. Ridenour and E. A. Raymond are all connected with
the business established by our subject.

Mr. Ridenour cares little for politics but is interested in public move-
ments and in the prosperity of Kansas City, where he has now made his
home for almost thirt\' years, which covers the period of the city's greatest
growth and development. He belongs to the little group of distinctively
representative business men who have been the pioneers in inaugurating and
building up the chief industries of this section of the country. He early
had the sagacity and prescience to discern the eminence which the future
had in store for this great and growing western country, and acting in ac-
cordance with the dictates of his faith and judgment, he has garnered in the
fullness of time the generous harvest which is the just recompense of in-
domitable industry, spotless integrity and marvelous enterprise.

EDWARD F. NELSON.

Edward F. Nelson, during the latter years of his life, was well known as
a capitalist of Kansas City. He arrived here in 1870 in company with his
father, George H. Nelson. They w^ere large landowners of Kentucky and
made the trip to western Missouri to see the country. They were so well
pleased with Kansas City and its prospects that they afterward spent much
of their time here, but returned on frequent trips to Kentucky to supervise
their invested interests in that state.

Edward F. Nelson was married in Kentucky, in 1875, to Miss Lilly
Nelson, who was born in Virginia and was a daughter of Dr. Henry Nelson,

222 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

who for a long period engaged in the practice of medicine and surgery. In
1865, however, he removed to Kansas City and here retired fi'om profes-
sional labors and invested hi.- capital in property. He w'as thus identified
with real-estate dealings as a speculator and became the owner of consider-
able valuable realty. Eventually, however, he removed to St. Louis, where
his remaining days were passed. His wife bore the maiden name of Cath-
erine Ingraham and their family included a daughter, Lilly, who in 1875
became Mrs. Edward F. Nelson. By this marriage there has been born one
daughter, Mary Dunlap, who lives with her mother and was educated here.
Edward F. Nelson died at his old home in Lexington, Kentucky, in
1891. In his political views he was always a stalwart democrat, but while
unswerving in support of the principles of the party, political honor and
preferment had no attraction for him. His religious faith was that of the
Episcopal church. During his residence in Kansas City he made many
friends here and became widely known. He was a man of broad general
learning and culture, and association with him meant expansion and im-
provement. Relieved of the necessity of strenuous toil, he had time and
opportunity to cultivate those graces of mind and character w^hich made
him an interesting and entertaining gentleman and Kansas City numbered
him as a valued acquisition to her ranks.

JOHN W. MERRILL.

John W. Merrill, deceased, is numbered among those who helped to
make Kansas City the beautiful and attractive metropolitan center which we
find today. He was born in Trumbull. Ohio, in 1827 and in early life learned
and followed the printer's trade in Warren, Ohio. With a nature that could
never be content with mediocrity, he gradually advanced in efficiency and
made steady progress in his business career until in 1845 he became manag-
ing editor of the Mahoning Index at Canfield, Ohio. In 1847 he removed
to what was then Westport but is now Keno.sha. Wisconsin, Avhere he en-
gaged in the transportation business on the Great Lakes. He became a
resident of Kansas City in 1868 and made his entrance into commercial
circles here as proprietor of a Inmberyard at the corner of Twelfth and Wal-
nut streets, which was then the very outskirts of the city. As the city
rapidly grew- and expanded he changed his location to the intersection of
Eleventh and Main street^, while later he was located at Eleventh and Bal-
timore streets, where the Hotel Baltimore now stands. This business was
finally removed to Southwe.-t boulevard and Summit street, where it is still
conducted by his son, being a part of the estate.

In 1853 Mr. Morrill Avas united in marriage to Miss Mary Foster. They
became the parents of four sons: John F., J. Will, Charles B. and Henry
C. The dentil of {hv husband and father occurred February 28, 1904, at
his winter home at Tropic. Florida, on the Indian river. The residence
of the familv in Kansas Citv has for years been at No. 2612 Independence

JOHN W. MEREILL.

•\jKK
PUB^i- .iBKARY

ASTOR. LENOX

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 225

avenue. Mr. Merrill was a man of forceful bu^iiness ability, having the
power to coordinate forces and to assimilate interests, shaping and control-
ling them and bringing them into a unity productive of the highest results.
He met with lai'ge success as a lumber merchant and also through his in-
vestments, which were judiciously made. Although he disclaimed any par-
ticular prominence, his fellow townsmen recognized his worth and appreci-
ated his ability and his spirit of general helpfulness in connection with the
upbuilding and progress of the city. He assisted materially in making Kan-
sas City what it is today. He strongly advocated the plan of parks and
boulevards and favored other movements which have been productive of
excellent results here. Although quiet and unassuming in manner, he
w^as a most companionable gentleman, broad-minded and liberal in his views,
recognizing good in all and manifesting at all times a spirit of helpfulness
toward his fellowmen and the citv of his abode.

JAMES BUCHANAN BELL, M.D.

Dr. James Buchanan Bell, who in early life prepared for the practice
of medicine and continued therein to some extent because of his humani-
tarian principles, was later also associated with banking interests and be-
came one of the leading business men and capitalists of Kansas City, where
he took up his abode in 1873. A native of Lexington, Rockbridge county,
Virginia, he was born August 24, 1820, his parents being Victor and Ann
(Hendron) Bell, who w^ere natives of Ireland, whence they came to America
in 1828, settling in Monroe county, Missouri, where the father died the fol-
lowing year. The mother afterward made her home in Chillicothe, Mis-
souri, until her demise in 1863.

Dr. Bell was carefully reared by his mother and began his education
in the common schools of Linn county, Missouri. He was also employed at
farm labor, thus aiding in the support of the family, and at the same time
continued his studies as opportunity offered. While he was still a boy his
mother removed with the family to Linn county, Missouri, where he con-
tinued his education as a public-school student, and subsequently he began
teaching in the schools there, being thus employed for a short time. He
was likewise engaged in trading in Linn county until 1846, but in the mean-
time he determined to devote his time and energies to professional service,
and in 1842 commenced the study of medicine under the direction of Dr.
Relph, one of the first physicians of Linneus, Linn county, Missouri. Dur-
ing the winter of 1845-46 he went to St. Louis, w^here he attended medical
lectures, and later pursued a second course in the winter of 1849-50. He
located for practice in Mercer county, Missouri, and when he opened his
office there had not a dollar, but he had been a thorough and discriminating
student, and he possessed moreover strong purpose and laudable ambition,
which constitute an excellent foundation upon which to rear the superstruc-
ture of success. From the beginning his practice increased steadily and

226 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

rapidly, and during the twelve year.-; of his residence there he aceumulated
twenty-five thousand dollars.

Dr. Bell continued to practice in Mercer county until 1860, when he
removed to Chillicothe, and there established a general mercantile store in
partnership with James Leeper under the firm name of Bell & Leeper. He
continued his professional work to some extent, but the demands of his
commercial interests forced him to retire in part from medical practice. In
1864 he purchased Mr. Leeper's interest in the business and conducted the
store alone until 1866, when he admitted P. Moore to a partnership and
thus carried on general merchandising in Chillicothe until 1867. He then
sought a new field of labor, organizing the Chillicothe Savings Association,
which became a substantial and largely patronized bank. He was chosen
president, with Greenup Bird as cashier, and continued in the banking busi-
ness at Chillicothe until 1873, when he disposed of his interests there and
came to Kansas City. His former success led him into larger undertakings,
bringing into action his administrative ability and powers of organization.

On coming to Kansas City, Dr. Bell at once purchased a controlling
interest in the Kansas City Savings Association, which is now the National
Bank of Commerce, and throughout his remaining days wa^ a prominent
representative of banking interests here. Although he practically lived re-
tired during the last twenty years of his life, he was yet finacially inter-
ested in the banks and derived therefrom a gratifying annual income. He
never retired altogether from the practice of medicine, but from humani-
tarian principles continued to labor for the alleviation of human suffering
to a greater or less extent.

About the time that Dr. Bell entered upon the practice of medicine he
was married, in Mercer county, Missouri, in 1850, to Miss Harriet Ballew,
a native of Tazewell county, Virginia, and a daughter of AVilliam and
Sarah (Oney) Ballew, both of whom were natives of Virginia, whence they
removed to Mercer county, Mis.souri, at an early day, continuing there to
reside until they were called to their final rest, the father devoting his time
and energies to farming. Dr. and Mrs. Bell became the parents of four
children. Pocahontas is the widow of Joseph A. Cooper, who was engaged
in the wholesale shoe business in Kansas City, and afterward became the first
president of the Citizens National Bank here, continuing iu the banking
business throughout the remainder of his life, his death here occurring in
1883. Mrs. Cooper resides here with her mother and sister and has a fine home
in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she spends the summer months. Her
only child, Virgil Cooper, is married and resides at Colorado Springs, where
he is engaged in the storage warehouse business. Rebecca B. Bell, the sec-
ond daughter, is the widow of George Hall Lapsley, who was a native of
Alabama, and spent a few years in Philadelphia, after which he came to
Kansas City, where he entered into partnership with his brother-in-law. Mr.
Cooper, in the wholesale shoe business. They remained together until Mr.
Cooper entered the field of banking, after which Mr. Lapsley continued in
the shoe business alone throughout his remaining days, his death occur-
ring in 1895. Mrs. Lap.«;ley now resides willi lici- mother, and sb" has one

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 227

son, James Bell Lapsley, who is engaged in the lumber business in Coffey-
ville, Kansas. A^ictor B. Bell, who married Nancy J. Lockridge, was the
president of the Long-Bell Lumber Company of Kansas City, the largest
lumber firm here, and remained at the head of the biLsiness until his death,
which occurred in June, 1905. His widow still resides here, making her
home at the corner of Thirty-seventh and McGee streets. Mary Scott, the
youngest of the family, died in childhood in 1871. The son and the two
sons-in-law of Mrs. Bell were very prominent and prosperous business men,
occupying a leading position in commercial and financial circles of the city.
The two daughters reside with their mother and are well known socially.
Mrs. Lapsley, greatly interested in relics, has in her possession a bullet and
also a spear from a flag which was used in the battle when Grant captured
Eichmond. She likewise possesses other interesting relics. Mrs. Bell is now
seventy-seven years of age, but is a remarkably well preserved woman, who
presides graciously .over her extensive and beautiful home at No. 2543 Troost
avenue, where she is living with her daughters.

The death of Dr. Bell occurred July 13, 1904, his remains being in-
terred in Elmwood cemetery. He had been ill for about ten months. In
politics he was a republican, stalwart in support of the party, and while
residing in Chillicothe served as mayor of that city for two years. He like-
wise acted as county treasurer of Livingston county for two terms, and for
several years was treasurer of the Chillicothe & Brunswick Railroad Com-
pany. During the last forty years of his life he affiliated with the Masonic
fraternity, and was one of its most exemplary representatives. His interest
centered in his family, and he always spent his evenings at home. He greatly
enjoyed reading and study, and carried his investigations far and wide into
the realms of knowledge. His business enterprise and ability and his judi-
cious investments brought him the success that numbered him among the
bankers and capitalists of Kansas City, while many of the acquaintances of
his earlier days remember him for valued professional sendee. His life was
honorable, his actions manly and sincere, and his worth as an indivdual and
citizen was widely acknow'ledged.

COLONEL WILLIAAI CHARLES GLASS.

Colonel William Charles Glass, now deceased, w^as numbered among
the veterans of the Civil war and from the ranks rose to the position of com-
mander of his regiment, thus gaining the title by which he was uniformly
known. A native of Ireland, he was born in County Donegal in 1837 and
was a son of AVilliam and Esther (Cassady) Glass, the former a farmer by
occupation. One daughter of the family, Mrs. Elizabeth Doherty, still re-
sides on the old homestead.

Colonel Glass was a poor boy. He had but limited opportunities, his
educational advantages being confined to a short attendance at a public
school. His elder brother. James Glass, came to the United States about

228 HISTORY OF KA^'SAS CITY

1849, .-ettling at Sedalia, Missouri, where he at first conducted a grocery
store, while later he engaged in the wholesale liquor business. Seeing the
opportunities for advancement in business life in the new world, he sent
for his brother William to join him in the United States and about 1851,
when fourteen years of age, Colonel Glass arrived in America. He crossed
the Atlantic to New York. His brother, James Glass, was for a time fire-
man in Chicago, belonging to the Fire Zouaves. Eventually Colonel Glas^
drifted to Bushnell, Illinois, and the money which he had managed to save
from his earnings in the intervening years enabled him to embark in mer-
chandising, which business he conducted successfully for some time.

In the meantime, however, two important chapters had been added to
his life hi.^tory — the first hi.s .service in the Civil war; the second hi- mar-
riage. In 1861 he offered his services to his adopted country as a defender
of the Union cause, enlisting as a private in the Seventeenth Illinois A^olun-
teer Infantry. The history of that regiment is the record of his military
career. He was always found at his post of duty, whether on the long
marches, the firing line or the picket line, and his fidelity and meritorious
conduct won him promotion through the various ranks until he became
colonel of his regiment. He served under General McClelland, participated
in many of the hotly contested battles of the war and was wounded at Vicks-
burg. He did not leave the front, however, but continued with his regiment
until the close of the war and his own valor and great fearlessness inspired
the men who served under him. With a most creditable military record he
returned to his home, wearing the insignia of the colonel's rank.

The following year Colonel Glass was married in Peoria, Illinois, to Miss
Ellen Carr, of that city, a daughter of .James Carr. who was from the south.
Unto them were born two children : William J., whose birth occurred iu
Kansas City in 1880 ; and Helen, at home.

Oil coming to Kansas City Colonel Glass established a wholesale liquor
house. His business prospered and he extended its scope from time to time,
enlarging his plant to meet the growing demands of the trade. As his suc-
cess increased he made judicious investment in property and acquired nuich
real-estate. For several years prior to his demise his entire time and atten-
tion were given to the suj^ervision of his real-estate interests, from which he
derived a gratifying annual income, M-hile his holdings enabled him to leave
his family in very comfortable financial circumstances.

Colonel Glass was particularly fond of travel, spent much time in the
soutli ;iii<l llic >(Milli\vc>l Mild ;il-() iii;i(lc tri|i.- to l^uro])e. visitina, {\\v iii;iii>'
points of modern, historic and scenic interest in the old world and gaining
that broad culture and knowledge which only travel can bring. A com-
municant of the Roman Catholic churcli. lie served as one of the official com-
mittee of St. Aloysiiis. Hi- |i<ilitic;il nllcgiaiicc w;i~ uivcii to tlic (h'liiocracy
but aside from any political connection he did active and effective work for
the interests of his adopted city. He was a member of the first park board
and assisted in planning the boulevard system, which is one of the most at-
tractive features of the city. JJo always gave his support to every movement
for municipal advancement and hi- labors were far-reaching and beneficial.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 229

111 the circle of his .-social acquaintances he was found to be a genial, courteous
and entertaining companion, while in the home he was devoted to the wel-
fare of his wife and children, finding his greatest happiness in administering
to their comfort and welfare.

JOHN F. BELLEMERE.

John F. Bellemere, deceased, was in Kansas City for but a brief period
but the family are w-ell known here and his wife w^as the builder of the
Bellemere block at the southwest corner of Twelfth and Cherry streets. She
w^as a resident of Kansas City from 1878 until her death in 1908 and her
daughter, Mrs. Clark, is still living here.

Mr. Bellemere was born in Hamilton near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,
March 23, 1823, and was descended from a noted French family. His father
Avas a native of France and was one of the Napoleon Ijodyguards until he
came to America. He engaged in the real-estate bu-siness in Hamilton, Penn-
.sylvania, and also in and near Philadelphia, handling much property in that
part of the state. His w^ife w^as born near Philadelphia and both spent their
last days in Hamilton, Pennsylvania.

John F. Bellemere acquired his education in the public schools of his
native town and entered business life as a draughtsman for the Philadelphia
& Reading Railroad Company there, continuing in that business until the
close of the war in 1865. He afterward learned the trade of a master
mechanic in Philadelphia, and subsequently accepted a position as master
mechanic at Reading, Pennsylvania, for the Eastern Pennsylvania Railroad
Company, which is now a part of the Philadelphia & Reading .system.
Throughout his remaining days he w^as thus connected with the business in-
terests of Reading, was faithful to every responsibility that devolved upon him
and had the entire confidence of the corporation which he represented.

While residing in Reading, Mr. Bellemere was married to Miss Sarah
A. Horft', a native of that place, born December 8, 1826. Her parents spent
their early lives in Gettysburg, where the father was a brick-mason and sub-
sequently he removed to Reading, where he continued in the same line of
business until his death, both he and his wife passing away there. Unto Mr.
and Mi's. Bellemere five children Avere born: Mary E., who is now the widow
of Henry J. Conrad and resides in San Francisco, California; William Francis,
a tobacco merchant of Reading, Pennsylvania; John Henry, who is engaged
in the photo supply business at Salt Lake City, Utah; George Lafayette, a
retired grocery merchat, living in Kansas City; and Ida V., the wife of J.
Stewart Clark, also a resident of Kansas City. Mr. Clark is a traveling sales-
man for the James S. Kirk Company of Chicago and unto him and his wife
have been born a son and daughter: Dr. Harold B. Clark and Mildred Adell
Clark. The son has recently graduated from Hahnemann Medical College
and will enter upon the active practice of his profession in Kansas City. The
daughter is at home with her parents.

230 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

While Mr. Bellemere was busily engaged as a master mechanic in Read-
ing, his wife, who had relatives living in Kansas City, came here in 1878,
accompanied by her daughter and the same year began investing in property
here. She built the Bellemere block at the corner of Twelfth and Cherry
streets and it is still one of the substantial structures of the city. In 1880
Mr. Bellemere came to Kansas City but he and his wife intended to return
to Reading. However, he was taken ill here and died on the 29th of January,
1881. He was a prominent Mason and held the highest offices in the Knight
Templar commandery of Reading, while his wife was connected with the
Eastern Star lodge there. In his political views Mr. Bellemere was a deiun-
erat and while he did not seek nor desire ofhce, was always interested in
progressive cititenship. He held membership in. the Lutheran church and
was a man of many excellent traits of character, respected by all who knew
him for his business ability and enterprise and for his many sterling traits.
His daughter, Mrs. Clark, is a member of the English Lutheran church of
Kansas City.

Mrs. Bellemere maintained her residence at No. 521 East Twelfth street—
a part of the Bellemere block — until 1900, when she sold that property and
made her home with Mr. and Mrs. Clark at No. 17 Spring street. She was
identified with Kansas City's interests for thirty years and therefore saw much
of its growth and development. Here she gained many warm friends, being
widely known. She traveled far on life's journey, having passed the eighty-
first milestone at the time of her death and received the respect which ever
crowns a well spent life.

HON. DANIEL S. TWITCHELL.

Hon. Daniel S. Twitchell, known a.- *"one of the most public spiril'.Ml
citizens of Kansas City," and a.s an attorney w^hose prominence made him
the peer of the ablest members of the bar here, was connected with profes-
sional and public interests in the city and state through many years. He
became a pioneer of the metropolis of western Missouri, arriving hero in
1865. His birth occurred near Ann Ai'bor in Scio township, Washtenaw
county, Michigan, April 11, 1834, his parents being Jonas and Refine
(Weckes) Twitchell. The father was a native of Vermont and in 1832
removed to Washtenaw county, Michigan, where he located on a. farm in
what was called the Vermont settlement. There he engaged in general ag-
ricultural pursuits until his later life, wlien ho removed to Minnesota and
made his homo with his son. Dr. H. W. ''lAvitoholl. ITis death there occurred
in 18cS0, wlion he had reached the ago of eighty-two years. His wife, who
died in Michigan, was of Quaker faith. She was born in Philadol]>hia and
became noted as a poetess and historian of licr day. Hor autliorship includes
such works as Weeke.s' Poems, Lectui-o.~ to Young Men, the Life of William
Ponn and other notable literary iM'oduotions.

In the family were three sons and two daughters, of whom Daniel S.
Twitolioll was the youngo.-t. 1n hi- earlv bovhond lie attended a country

D. S. TWITCHELL.

PUBUC UBKARY

ASTOR, LENOX

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 233

school about a mile from his father's farm, pursuing his studies during the
winter seasons, while in the summer months he assisted in the labors of the
fields. Reared in a cultured home, he had the advantage of good books and
his evening hours were usually devoted to reading and study. On leaving
home to provide for his own support, he worked upon neighboring farms,
receiving a salary of twelve dollars per month. By the time he finished a
course in the country schools he had saved up sixty-five dollars and with this
money went to Oberlin, Ohio, where he used his little capital in paying the
expenses of a college course in Oberlin College. He had to supplement his
savings, however, by earnings at night work. Four years were passed as a
student in that institution, after which he returned to Washtenaw county,
Michigan, and began the study of law. He then entered the law office of
Hiram J. Beakes of Ann Arbor, w^ho directed his reading for a few years,
and in 1858 he successfully passed the examination which secured his ad-
mission to the bar. He then opened an office in Ann Arbor, Avhere he prac-
ticed for a year, at the end of which time, being desirous of gaining still
broader and more accurate knowledge of legal principles, he matriculated
in the law department of the University of Michigan in 1860, becoming a
member of the first law class of that now famous school. He was graduated
with high honors in 1831 and almost immediately afterward he enlisted
for service in the Civil war, raising a company for active duty at the front.
He was commissioned captain, but on account of the illnes.s of his wife was
compelled to resign. He ever remained, however, a faithful advocate of the
Union cause, doing what he could to advance its interests at home and
afterward doing duty in the department of the provost marshal. Prior to
becoming a student, or in 1859, he had been elected city recorder of Ann
Arbor and in 1860 was elected circuit court commissioner for AVashtenaw
county, while later he became prosecuting attorney. He filled all of those
offices in capable manner and at the same time attended to the duties of a
growing law practice. In 1865, however, having become dissatisfied with
that country, he decided to establish his home in the west and removed
to Kansas City, where he opened a law office.

In the meantime Mr. Twitchell had been married in Jackson, Michi-
gan, to Miss Delia Scott, who died in Kansas City in 1867. They were the
parents of two children, Ralph E. and Wirt Beecher. The elder son attended
the University of Kansas at Lawrence, afterward returned to Ann Arbor and
was graduated in the law department of the State University there. He is now
a very prominent attorney of Las Vegas, New Mexico, being considered the
best trial lawyer of that territory. He married MLss Olivia Collins of St.
Joseph, Missouri, who died in New Mexico, leaving one child, Waldo, eigh-
teen years of age. Wirt Beecher, now residing in Kelvin, Arizona, is a
mining expert and owner of various copper properties in that territory. He
frequently visits in Kansas City with his stepmother, the present Mrs.
Twitchell, who faithfully took the part of an own mother to her stepchil-
dren. On the 13th of April, 1869, in Kansas City, Mr. Twitchell was again
married, his second union being with Ml«s Mary Benjamin, a native of
Lexington, Kentucky, and a daughter of Mrs. Emeline Boullt, a native of

234 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

the state of New York, who in 1859 came to Kansas City and died at the
home of her daughter, Mrs. Twitchcll, in 1900.

Mr. Twitch ell had been a resident of Kansas City for only a compara-
tively brief period before he had built uj) a large law practice which made
constant demands upon his time and attention throughout his remaining
days. He had in an eminent degree that rare ability of saying in a con-
vincing way the right thing at the right time. With a thorough and com-
prehensive knowledge of the fundamental principle,-- of law, he combined a
familiarity with statutory law and a sober, clear judgment. He soon took
high rank as a most able and successful lawyer. He was modest and retir-
ing, adhering to the old views of professional ethics, which discountenance
all manner of advertising and self-adulation. He was, however, strong in
argument, clear in his reasonings and logical in his deductions and his prac-
tice became of a most important character, connecting him with the leading
litigation heard in the courts.

In politics Mr. Twitchell was a stalwart republican, with firm faith
in the principles of the party as most conducive to good government. He
recognized it as a duty as well as privilege of the American citizen to uphold
his political principles at the polls and to labor for their adoption along
legitimate lines. He was therefore known as an active worker in republican
ranks and was frequently called to public office. In 1869 he was elected
citv attorney and counselor and in 1881, 1882 and 1883 was likewise elected
city counselor. In 1876 he was chosen a delegate to the republican national
convention at Cincinnati and was made assistant secretary of that body. In
the years 1872, 1876 and 1890 he was the nominee of his party for congress
in what was known as the fifth congressional district of Missouri and in 1874
he was its nominee for attorney general. He always polled a large vote l)ut
it is a well known fact that this is a democratic stronghold.

In his social relations Mr. Twitchell was connected witli the Ma.sons,
the Odd Fellows, the Knights of Pythias and the Elks, being identified with
the local lodges of these different organizations in Kansas City. He was
one of the founders of the Early Settlers Historical Society here, \rhich now
has a large membership and its establishment upon a safe basis and its sub-
sequent growth were due in no small degree to his labors. When death
came to him. March 31, 1901, nearly all of Kansas City pioneers now liv-
ing attended the funeral services, also nearlv evcrv member of the Kansas
City bar and of {\\v Knights of Pythias lodge with which he was affiliated.
He was regarded as a peer of the ablest attorneys of Missouri and the regard
in which he was held because of his strong personal characteristic- was no
less pronounced than was his professional prominence. Following his de-
mise the Kansas City Bar Association held a meeting in honor of his mem-
ory, at which speeches were made by J. A'. (\ Karnes, W. C. Scarritt and C.
W. Clarke, while C. S. Palmer, president of the association, presided. In
his opening remarks. President Palmer said: "The late Colonel Twitchell
was one of the innsl public spirited men of our couiinuiiity. He was always
ready to do something for the welfare of the city.'' The committee named to
draw up resolutions clo.'^ed its report with the following: "He i- dead, but

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 23t>

his memory will be long cherished by those who have struggled with him
in laying the foundations of this young and growing city. Our great pro-
fession is elevated and dignified by men of his high character. We com-
mend his spirit to the God who gave it, with the comforting reflection that
he lived not in vain."

Mrs. Twitchell is a member of the Grace Episcopal church, in the work
of which she takes much interest and Mr. Twitchell was a frequent attend-
ant at the church services. She owns a nice home at 3104 Perry avenue,
where she resided with her husband for several years prior to his demise.
She is prominent socially here and possesses more than ordinary ability as a
writer and along literary lines. Among the most genial of men, of strong
intellectuality, of firm purpose and of high ideals, Mr. Twitchell was hon-
ored wherever known and most of all where best known.

JUDGE JOHN C. TARSNEY.

Judge John C. Tarsney, lawyer, lawmaker and jurist, was born in
Medina, Michigan, November 7, 1845. His parents, Timothy and Mary
(Murray) Tarsney, were natives of Ireland and in early manhood and
womanhood came to the United States, becoming residents of Rochester, New
York, where they were married. Subsequently they removed to Toledo,
Ohio, and afterward to Medina, Michigan. The father devoted almost his
entire life to general agricultural pursuits and died in Sacramento, California,
where he had gone for the benefit of his health in 1859. His wife passed
away in 1883.

Judge Tarsney was reared in Hillsdale, Michigan, to which place his
parents removed when he was only about fifteen months old. The public
schools of that city afforded him his educational privileges and in 1882,
when a youth of seventeen years, he espoused the Union cause and joined the
boys in blue of Company E, Fourth Michigan Infantry. It was on the 28th
of August that he joined the army and, remaining with his command until
the close of the war, being mustered out on the 5th of June, 1865, his service
at the front covering nearly three years. But a boy when he entered the
army, the experiences through which he passed were such as awakened the
elements of manhood and he came from the south with a knowledge of the
world and its experiences far beyond that of young men of similar years
whose early manhood is passed within the shelter of home. He had partici-
pated in many sangTiinary engagements, including the battles of ^Vntietam,
Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville. At Gettysburg, on the 2d of July,
1863, he was wounded and taken prisoner and was sent to Belle Isle, while
later he was incarcerated at Andersonville and Millen and afterward at
Savannah. He was released as a prisoner of war November 21, 1864, after
seventeen months spent in southern prison pens. When again at liberty he
rejoined his regiment and participated in the campaign of 1865, beginning
with Hatchers Run. He was present at the battle of Five Forks and at tbe

'2S'6 HlSTOKi' OF KA^^SAS CITY

evacuation uf Petersburg and also witnessed the surrender of General Lee at
Appomattox.

Following his discharge Judge Tarsney returned to Michigan and con-
tinued his education as a high school student at Hudson, where he was
graduated with the class of 18(57. Determining upon a professional career,
he entered the law department of the University of Michigan and was
graduated with the class of 1869. He then located for practice in Hudson,
Michigan, where he remained until 1872, when he came to Kansas City, re-
maining an active and i3rominent member of the bar here until 1888. In
1874 he wa8 chosen city attorney and filled the position for two years. From
J 875 until 1888 he was attorney for the street railway companies of Kansas
City and in the last mentioned year was elected to congress from his district
and was returned to the office in 1890, 1892 and 1894. Thus for four con-
secutive terms he represented his district in the council chambers of the
nation, where he was not without influence in molding congressional opin-
ions and actions. In 1896 he was appointed by Grover Cleveland associate
justice of the supreme court of Oklahoma territory and served upon the
bench until March, 1899. Returning in that year to Kansas City, he resumed
the practice of law, in which he has since been engaged and is recognized
as one of the learned and able lawyers of western Missouri, capably hand-
ling litigated interests before the courts and rendering valuable service as
counsel. He has also been identified with the coal industry of the city and
owns coal properties in Adair county, this state.

On the 10th of May, 1871, Judge Tarsney was married to Miss ^lary
Behan, of Adrian, oNlichigan, and unto them were born five children, but all
are now deceased. Judge and Mrs. Tarsney maintain their home at the
Coates House and Mi-s. Tarsney, very prominent in benevolent work, is the
executive head of the Perry Memorial Orphan Boys' Home, is actively con-
nected with the A.ssociated Charities of Kansas City and with various other
charitable and civic orders promoting the interests of the poor and advanc-
ing the intellectual and moral development of the community. Judge and
Mrs. Tarsney are commimicants of the Catholic church and his political
allegiance has been iniswervingly given to the democracy, which vccoLinizes
in him one of its distinguished leaders in Missouri.

A. J. IIIGLEY.

A. J. Higlcy, of Kansas City, in his rciil-cstate bu.siness is largely linnd-
ling wcsti'i-n land- and few real-estate men have better knowledge^ of prop-
erty values m the wot than docs he. Mr. Higley was born in Puthnid,
Ohio, October 1, 1851. His father, Julius B. Higley, was born November
9, 1822, on the same farm on which occurred the birth of his son.

His fatlier was Cyrus Higley and his grandfather Brewster Higley, the
first settler in that section of Ohio, to which locality he removed from Rut-
land, Vermont, and the town and township were named by him in memory

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 237

of his former place of residence. When he took up his abode in Ohio the
nearest store was at Marietta and there he went for his merchandise and mail.
He had much to do with the early development and settlement of that sec-
tion of Meigs county, aiding in laying broad and deep the foundation upon
which has been built the later progress and prosperity of the locality. He
and his wife had made the journey from New England on horseback and
when they dismounted for the last time on reaching their destination Mrs.
Higley hitched the horse to a small mulberry sapling and camped on what
is now the site of the cemetery. The sapling in the course of years grew
to an immense tree, died and was cut down. There was later a marble slab
inserted into the stump of the tree, on which was inscribed an account of the
use to which she had put the tree as a hitching post in that early day. Both
Brew.-ter Higley and his son Cyrus were buried in that cemetery. Julius B.
Higley, h(»wever, left the old home in Ohio and caiiie west with his family
in 1866, purchasing a half section of land five miles southeast of Lee's Summit,
in Jackson county, Missouri. The farm is now owned by a man of the name
of Smart. It continued to be the residence of Julius Higley until 1882, when
he removed to Reno county, Kansas, where he made his home until his
death, passing away in Sterling, that state, on the 6th of July, 1905, when
in his eighty-third year. During his early manhood he was a warm and
close friend of Colonel Van Horn, who was then conducting a newspaper
at Pomeroy, Ohio, and this friendship continued throughout life.

Julius Higley was married to Miss Maria L. Puqua, daughter of John
Fuqua, a native of France who came to this country as a young man and
located in Greenup county, Kentucky, where he became the possessor of ex-
tensive landed interests and prior to the war was the owner of two hundred
slaves, who were employed in the cultivation and improvement of his plan-
tation.

A. J. Higley, whose name introduces this review, spent the first fifteen
years of his life in the state of his nativity and then accompanied his parents
on their removal to Missouri. He was educated in the public schools of
Ohio, and Missouri and also attended college at Beloit, Wisconsin. Leaving
the home farm in 1878 he went to Hutchinson, Kansas, where he took up
the study of law in the office of Houk & Brown, the junior partner of the
firm being for several years judge of the court of the ninth judicial district
and later a member of congress. After thorough preliminary reading Mr.
Higley was admitted to the bar and engaged in practice, conducting a real-
estate and loan business in connection with his law work. He wa^ identified
with those interests in Hutchinson for seventeen years and in 1895 came to
Kansas City, since which time he has given his attention to real-estate deal-
ing, buying and selling western lands, in which he is very successful. He
has negotiated many important realty transfers and is largely familiar with
the property that is upon the market and its possible diminution or apprecia-
tion in value, so that he has been enabled to make judicious purchases and
profitable sales.

Mr. Higley was married on the 6th of September, 1876, to Miss Emma
E. Howe, of Kewanee, Illinois, a daughter of Colonel J. H. Howe, who com-

238 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

maiided a brigade during the Civil war and was later commir-sioned a
brigadier general. He was closely associated with General Grant during the
period of hostilities and when the hero of Appomattox was occupying the
White House, Colonel Howe was appointed by him to the position of chief
justice of Wyoming. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Higley has been blessed
with four children : Florence E., now the wife of George E. Kimball, of
Rochester, Ncav York; Clyde S., who is associated with his father in business;
John, who is connected with the Belt Line Lumber Company, of Kansas City;
and Helen L., w'ho is attending high school.

Mr. Higley has never taken an active part in political affairs, preferring
to concentrate his undivided attention upon his business interests, which,
capably conducted, have brought him signal success.

JAMES M. GREENWOOD, LL. D.

James Mickleborough Greenw^ood, author, educator and lecturer, was
born November 15, 1837, in Sangamon county, Illinois, his parents being
Edmund and Jeanette (Foster) Greenwood. The ancestral history is traced
back to William Greenwood, who in 1635 emigrated from England, his na-
tive country, to Virginia. The maternal grandfather, Peyton Foster, was
descended from a Huguenot family that migrated to South Carolina at an
early day. His wife was connected with the Daniel and Mickleborough fami-
lies of Virginia, and thus back of Mr. Greenwood of this review there is an
ancestry honorable and distinguished.

In 1824 the paternal grandfather settled upon a farm in Sangamon
county, Illinois, and not far distant was the boyhood home of James ]\I. Green-
wood, who at the age of eight years began attending school, while his leisure
hours from tlie time that he could read were devoted to such books as he
could procure in the neighborhood. In 1852 his father removed with the
family to Adair county, Missouri, settling near the present site of Brashear,
where he died in 1902. In his youth James M. Greenwood divided his time
between the duties of the farm, the acquirement of an education, and the
enjoyment which he derived from hunting. His educational privileges, how-
ever, were meager for the nearest school was seven miles from his home, so
that on rainy days and in the evenings he pursued his lessons at his own
fireside. Text-books were scarce but the death of a scholarly man of the
neighborhood resulted in the sale of a number of volumes which Mr. Green-
wood purchased witb ni()n(\v he had made selling a two year old steer. These
books included a Latin grammar, Virgil, first and second book in Spanish,
an algebra, a geometry, a book on surveying. Butler's analogy, and Olm-
stead's philosophy, and Mr. Greenwood set to work to master the contents.
Without a teacher he gained a comprehensive knowledge of mathematics,
philosophy and a fair knowledge of Spanish and Latin. He displayed nat-
ural aptitude in his studies and with great desire for education he eagerly
embraced every opportunity foi- adding to his learning, and throughout his

J. M. GREENWOOD.

' -.'ORK
PUl.„. . .iBRARY

ASTOR, LENOX
TILDEN FOiJf-»ATrONS

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 241

entire life has been a close and discriminating student, being now widely
recognized as a man of broad and scholarly attainments. When he was six-
teen years of age, however, he had but six terms' schooling and between
that and the age of twenty he attended school but twenty-five days. In 1857
he entered the Methodist Seminary at Canton, Missouri, where he made a
record without parallel in its history. He w^ould have completed a four years'
course in ten months had he not been obliged to discontinue his studies on
account of impaired health. However, the course was practically completed,
as ho passed examinations in twenty different branches. He read law under
the direction of his tw^o uncles. Rev. George W. Foster and Colonel J. D.
Foster, from 1858 until 1861, and when the war broke out he gave his law
books to his brother and went into service. A part of his time during thig
period was also given to farm work.

On the 1st of November, 1859, Mr. Greenwood was married to Mis?
Amanda McDaniel, a teacher in Kirkville, whose ambitions and talents were
similar to his own. From 1862 until 1864 Mr. Greenwood served in the Mis-
souri State Militia.

His active connection with the teacher's profession began when he was
seventeen years of age, successfully teaching a school in Adair county, Mis-
souri. At a later date he was urged to apply for a vacant school at Lima,
Illinois, but it was against his principles to ask for the position. He was
then induced by the school directors to visit the town, and when one in-
quired concerning his politics he received the answ^er, "It is none of your
business. If you want politics taught in your school you must look for an-
other teacher, for I am too good a patriot to be a partisan and too good a
Christian to be a sectarian." He was engaged on condition of his obtaining
a certificate from the county superintendent. The commissioner wrote ques-
tions upon the blackboard, giving him three hours in which to answer. He
asked for an immediate oral examination, answered all the questions and
received a first grade certificate — the first one issued in the county. In 1864
Mr. Greenwood returned to Adair county, Missouri, where he taught a win-
ter school in 1864-65, which was interrupted by smallpox, and afterward
worked in offices of circuit clerk and county clerk. In the fall of 1865, he
taught at Lima, Illinois, and the following year he taught a winter term in
Knox county, Missouri. During all these years his spare time was devoted
to mathematical studies, history, philosophy and reading international law.
In 1867 he became the teacher of mathematics, natural philosophy and
logic in a private normal school opened by Dr. Joseph Baldwin at Kirkville,
Missouri, where he continued for seven years, becoming recognized through-
out the state as a superior mathematician. During this time his wife acted
as principal of the model training department. Early in 1861 Mr. Green-
wood, Mr. AV. P. Nason and Rev. D. M. Kniter organized the first teacher's
institute in northwestern Missouri, at Kirksville, and actvely participated in
its work. He and his wife without solicitation on their part were called to
Mount Pleasant College at Huntsville, Missouri, in 1870, Mr. Greenwood as
teacher of mathematics, logic, rhetoric and reading, and his wife as teacher
of botany, history and primary Avork. After six months they resigned that

242 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Mr. Greenwood might accept the chair of mathematics in Kirksville Nor-
mal, which had become a state school. He had been offered the presidency
of the institution, but declined, .stating that Dr. Baldwin had established the
school and it would be injustice to him. In .June, 1874, J. V. C. Karnes,
treasurer of the board of education of Kansas City, wrote to ]Mr. Greenwood,
asking him to apply for the po.-;ition of superintendent of the schools here.
He refused to make application, but said he would accept if elected, and
he w-as chosen for the position over sixteen applicants. Kansas City's popu-
lation then numbered twenty-eight thousand and the schools had just be-
come Avell established. However, there were still many obstacles and dis-
cordant elements, while limited means proved a stumbling block. Mr.
Greenwood succeeded in restoring harmony and created a public sentiment
favorable for the necessary financial support. He organized a teacher's insti-
tute, introduced improved methods of management, discipline and class reci-
tations, and, in fact, so improved the schools that in the second year there was
a gain of two hundred and fifty-five in daily average attendance, while at
the close of the school year of 1877-78, the Kansas City schools were recog-
nized as the best in the west. To his efforts Avas due the systematic organ-
ization of laboratory science and literary studies in the high school, which
Avas the first in the west to introduce these systems now in vogue in nearly all
institutions of similar grade. His entire disregard of local interests in hir-
ing teachers and the so-called claims of home teachers was also an element
in his success in his Avork in the schools, for he considered only the capability
of those Avho sought the positions and Avithout discrimination recommended
teacliers according to their Avorth. His own zeal and interest in the AA'ork
became the inspiration of others, and Kansas City schools made progress
unequaled up to tliat time in the history of education here.

Professor CrreenAvood is also Avell knoAvn as an author, his Avritings be-
ing largely confined to Avorks upon education and kindred topics. In ]8S4
he was appointed to revise Ray's Higher Arithmetic; in 1887 he Avrotc
Principles of Education Practically Applied; published by the Appletons; in
1888 prepared a hi-torical sketch of Missouri for Butler's Advanced Geog-
raphy; in 1890 wrote A Complete Manual on Teaching Arithmetic, Algebra
and Geometry and published by Maynard, ^Merrill & Company; and in asso-
ciation Avith Dr. Arteimis Martin wrote A History of American Arithmetics
and a Biograpliical Sketch of the Authors, AA^hich Avas issued a- a govern-
ment publication. F(»r years he has l)ccn a i-cviser of standard mathemati-
cal works. In 1005, Avith Mr. (i. !>. Longaii and Mr. .1. IT. Macklcy. lie pre-
pared an elementary and aNo a coiniiion school arithmetic, published in New
York. His annnal rcpoil- and nia.ss of cdncational literature, of Avhich he
is the author, have received commendation from highest authorities. He
bfi.= been a frequent contributor to leading magazines, reviews and educa-
tional journals. IIi> writings have covoitmI a wide scope and have shown
broad research, ad\anc((l tiiou^lit. and original ideas.

In 1895 Professoi- (ircenwood made a tour of Europe with a company
of distinguished nun. including Dr. William T. Harris. United States com-
missioner of education, tlic ])urpose of the trip being to observe the progress

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 243

of education in .-^ome of the principal European countries. They visited
many of the leading schools, colleges and universities abroad and gained
many valuable ideas concerning educational methods in vogue in European
centers of learning. Through his efforts the official map of 1897, issued by
the commissioner of the land office and showing the original Louisiana Pur-
chase, was corrected.

As a lecturer, as well as educator and author. Professor Greenw^ood is
known throughout the country, and his addresses have been styled as elo-
quent, logical and original. He is indeed a fluent and forcible speaker, his
thoughts being presented at times with a terse and decisive logic, according
to the subject, while on other occasions he has shown himself master of the
art of rhetoric. Since 1870 he has delivered more than one thousand lectures
throughout the country, and at all times he has stimulated the thought of
his auditors, bringing to them new ideas which have resulted in a breadth of
vision concerning many important themes. In 1876 he was president of the
Missouri State Teachers' Association and was again its president in 1906,
an honor conferred on no other educator of the state. In 1887 he was elected
a life director of the National Educational Association, and from 1890 until
1895 was its treasurer and in 1898 its president and he is now a member of
its Board of Trustees. In the same year the University of Missouri conferred
upon him the degree of Doctor of Laws, having received the degree of Mas-
ter of Arts in 1873. It was largely through his efforts that Dr. William T.
Harris was chosen commissioner of education by President Harrison, to
whom Mr. Harris was politically opposed.

Deprived in youth of the advantages which many enjoy, Dr. (Treen-
wood made for himself the opportunities which he otherwise lacked and has
steadily progressed along lines of intellectual attainment. Early in his ca-
reer he made it his purpose and aim to master thoroughly every subject to
which he gave his attention, and as he has continued his study and research
this has given him a breadth of view and clear understanding manifest in
his forceful discussion of many subjects which have claimed public attention.
The peer and friend of many of the ablest educators and government men of
the country, his labors for educational advancement and his contributions to
technical and general literature and entitle him to be known as one of the
benefactors of the twentieth centurv.

VERDI I. BANTA.

Verdi I. Banta, manager of the Heim Brewery, has spent almost his
entire life in Kansas City, for his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Daniel W. Banta,
removed here when the son was but three months old, his birth having oc-
curred in Lafayette, Indiana, June 7. 1865. The father was a native of
Lockport, New York, born in 1835, and acquired his education in the coun-
try schools. He was reared as a farm boy, spending his youth in the home

244 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

of his lalliLT, Peter Banta, a native of New York city, who, leaving the
metropolis, became identified with agricultural interests in the interior of
the state.

Daniel W. Banta left Lockport when a young man and made his way
to Michigan, where he worked at the painter's trade. He afterward removed
to St. Louis and eventually came to Kansas City, arriving here in 1858. It
was a frontier town at that time and all to the west stretched an unde-
veloped, unsettled region, for only a few white men had penetrated into
that section of the country, which was largely in possession of the red race.
Mr. Banta traded with the Indians for years. Another element in his life
record worthy of note is the fact that he was the organizer of the first band
of Kansas City, known as Banta's Band, its meetings being held in the base-
ment of the old Long building at the corner of Fifth and Main streets. He
played many brass and string instruments, including the violin and was a
jDroficient musician as well as a lover of the art. He led his band for thirty
years and when the Civil war broke out the Ijand enlisted as a body and
served for four years as part of an Illinois regiment. At its close Daniel
Baiita held the rank of major. While at the front he was wounded in the
head but recovered from his injuries and at the close of the war returned
to Kansas City, where he resumed trading with the Indians. He had a
large store at the corner of Sixteenth street and Grand avenue and for a
time was in j^artnei-ship with Milton McGee. He not only traded withjhe
Indians but did an extensive business in the shipment of buffalo robes, send-
ing thousands of these to the markets of the east.

He became an important factor in the upbuilding of this section of tlie
country and was connected with the construction of the first railroad — the
Northern Pacific — through Kansas City. After the completion of this line
across the Sunflower state he ceased trading with the Indians, selling his
business to a St. Louis firm, after which he devoted his attention tn his
band interests and to music until 1890. In that year he removed to AVest-
port, where he purchased the Green farm, whereon he made his home until
his dcatli. which occurred March 9, 1905. Some time ])ri()r to hi- d;'nn-o he
purcliased thf old family homestead at Clifton Park near Saratoga, New
York, and this he improved. Following his demise his widow and one
daughter removed to (his home and there Mrs. Banta passed away Octoljer
7, 1908. her remains being interred by the side of her hnsband in Forest
Hill cemetery of Kansas City.

Mr. J^aiila wn< a i-c])nl)lifan in \\'\< political view- and lioih lir and
Lis wife were mcmlirrs of St. Mary's Episcopal church at the corner of
Eighth and Wnlinil sli'ccts. His life in all of its relations and jturjio-es
was actuated by high and honorable principles and was in harmonv with
his pi-of('-sions of religion inid witli all that nieiiibei'ship in the Masonic
fraternity implies. He was likewise a valued memlier of the Grand Ai-my
of tlie Tiei>ublie and of the Old Settlers' Association. His interests were so
closelv connected with tlie improvement of Kansas City from its ])ioneer
days until the latter [)ai1; of the nineteenth century that no history of the
city wonld bo complete without mention of lii- life and a tribute to his mem-

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 245

ory. Unto him and his wife were born two children, the daughter being
Hattie S., now Mrs. Clark P. Smith, of Clifton Park, New York.

Verdi I. Banta attended the Franklin public school at Fourteenth and
Washington streets to the age of fourteen years, when he entered the employ
of the government as a letter carrier, but he had scarcely more than become
connected with the service when congress passed a law prohibiting all under
eighteen years of age remaining in the service. Mr. Banta then obtained
employment in the postoffice and remained in the federal building for fif-
teen years, working his way upward by various promotions to the responsible
position of superintendent of the general delivery. He acted in that capacity
for eight years and was one of the most trusted employes in the po.stoffice.
Removing to Westport, he was appointed postmaster at that place by Presi-
dent Harrison to fill out the unexpired term of Postmaster Love. At the
end of two years, however, he resigned and was made deputy sheriff under
Sheriff W. S. Pontius, resigning his position to accept that of city collector
of the Ferd Heim Brewery. In June, 1907, he was appointed manager of
the brewery, which position he has since filled. He is a capable business
man of executive ability and keen discrimination and is giving entire satis-
faction to those w^hom he represents.

Mr. Banta was married in Kansas City, on the 3d of June, 1893, to
Miss Gertrude Putnam, of this city, a daughter of Nathan W. Putnam. She
was bom at the corner of Ninth and Harrison streets and by her marriage
has become the mother of two children : Verdi and Nathan. Mr. Banta is
a republican in his political views, is a member of the fraternal order of
Eagles and a communicant of the Episcopal church. For forty-three years
he has been a resident of Kansas City and Jackson county and as an inter-
ested witness has watched the transformation which has been wrought as it
has emerged from pioneer conditions and taken on all the evidences of
modern metropolitan life.

MRS. CARRIE WESTLAKE WHITNEY.

Mrs. Carrie Westlake Whitney is a Virginian by birth, and a Missou-
rian by adoption ; she w^as born on a large plantation in Virginia, and is
the daughter of Wellington Bracee and Helen (Van Waters) AVestlake. As
customary with southern people, Mrs. Whitney received her education in
private schools. Her parents moved to Missouri, near Sedalia, in her early
years and Mrs. Whitney attended school in St. Louis, where she lived with
relatives. Mrs. Whitney was married December 1, 1885, to Mr. James Steele
Whitney, who died in February, 1890.

Mrs. Whitney was appointed librarian of the Kansas City Public Li-
brary March, 1881, and has since held the position continuously, beginning
as custodian of a thousand volumes, to-day she has charge of ninety thousand
volumes. Mrs. Whitney has been a member of the American Library Asso-
ciation since 1889, attending the conferences every year; she is also a mem-

246 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

ber of the Missouri branch of American Folk-lore Society; and associate
member of the Missouri Historical Society, St. Louis.

Mrs. Whitney's years of service as librarian have made her name fa-
miliar in every household; her greatest achievement as librarian has been
her influence Avith children. The reference department has been the foun-
dation of the library, of which Mrs. AVhitney is the head, and thus has
developed one of the foremost institutions in Kansas City. While the growth
of Mrs. AMiitney's work has not been marvelous, the library has advanced
step by step until to-day it ranks among the advanced libraries of the
centur}'.

Mrs. Whitney's biography is the history of the Kansas City Public
Librarv.

JAMES YATES.

James Yates, who for a long period figured in business circles in Kansas
Cit}'^ as a man of enterprise, practical ideas and force of character, met that
.measure of success which always follows intense activity, intelligently di-
rected. For a quarter of a century he was connected with the ice trade and
later was president of the Economic Asphalt Repair Company, but spent
the last year of his life in honorable retirement from labor. He was born
in Fonda, New York, in 1844, and was reared and educated in the Empire
state and became a student in Union College at Schenectady, New York,
from which he was graduated in the class of 1863. Soon afterward he w^ent
to the west and became connected with railroad interests and was employed
by the Burlington & Missouri River Railroad for a year as purchasing agent,
with headquarters at Burlington, Iowa. About 1865 he located in Atchison,
Kansas, where he established a retail lumber business and afterward broad-
ened the scope of his activity by becoming connected with the ice trade
as Avell.

In 1878 Mr. Yates returned to the state <if New York and was there
married to Miss Margaret Ilesler. of Fort Plain, a, granddaughter of Gnulean
Verplanck, of Holland descent. He then retui-ncd to the west with his bride,
establishing their home in Atchison. As a dealer in lnnil»ei- and ice he met
with success, his business developing along .substantial lines, and in 1S,S2
a branch was established in Kansas City. Two years later the original olliee
was discontinued and Mr. Yates came to Kansas City to reside, organizing
here the Yates Ice Company, dealers in natural ice. He built large ice
houses at Bean Lake, with a capacity of sixty-five thousand ton.-^. and e<tal)-
lished business in this city, lb' was one of the fir.^t to engage here in the
sale of ice and gradually his trade inerea.-ed to exteii.-ivo ])iT)|)ortion-. until
he was employing seventy-five men and utilizing twenly-live teams va eany-
ing on hLs business. In 1897 he sold ont his retail business to the People's
Ice Company and carried on a wholesale ice hn-ine.-s nnfil l'.)(ll. Pi-o.-itcrity
attended him in this branch of the trade and he eoniinne(l sneee.~sfnllv for
seven years, when he disposed n\' hi.- ice house- :nid retired from tliat line of

JAMES YATES.

PUD

iBi.ARY

ASTOR, LENOX

iTTLDCN F0-t:»AT10NSl

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 249

commercial activity. He then became connected with the Economic Asphalt
Repair Company as president, with D. H. Bows as vice-president and man-
ager, and W. H. Seage.r as secretary and treasurer. The company was organ-
ized for the purpose of repairing asphalt pavements in Kansas City and
employed twenty-five men, and from the beginning the business was a
profitable one. In 1907 this company sold out to the Metropolitan Asphalt
Company and Mr. Yates retired from active business, save that he was a
stockholder in the Union National Bank.

Mr. Yates built a home at Thirteenth and Madison streets, where he
resided until 1905, when he purchased and remodeled a beautiful residence
on Sunnnit street. In February, 1908, he went abroad, spending three
months in touring Switzerland, Italy, Spain and Egypt. He passed away
on the 23d of August, 1908, and Kansas City thus lost one of its substantial
residents who had never figured in public life, but who in his business actions
and social relations had ever enjoyed the fullest respect and confidence of
those with whom he was brought in contact. He was always active in the
interests and welfare of Kansas City, doing much to advance its upbuilding
and as the years wejit by he gained a most creditable record as citizen and
business man. He was always energetic, formed his plans readily and was
determined in their execution. There was no esoteric phase in his career.
On the contrary, he based his business principles and actions upon the rules
which govern strict and unswerving integrity and unabating energy, and
therein was the secret of his success.

CHARLES E. KEARNEY.

Charles E. Kearney, deceased, was one of the pioneer wholesale and retail
merchants of Kansas City, and belonged to that class of representative Amer-
ican men who, while promoting individual success, also contribute to the
substantial upbuilding and prosperity of the community in which they live.
He was a native of Ireland, born March 8, 1820. His parents both died on
the Emerald Isle Avhen their son Charles was comparatively young. He was
a youth of nine at the time of his mother's demise and at the age of sixteen
he determined to seek a home in America, for he had a brother residing in
Texas. His father had been an army officer and Charles E. Kearney had been
afforded good educational advantages in Ireland. On the day that Queen
Victoria was crowned he sailed for the United States, landing in New York
city, whence he made his way direct to his brother's home in Texas. There
he was engaged as a Mexican trader and continued there during the period of
the Mexican war. He afterward began making trips to the w^est, carrying on
business, however, as a trader all the time. He crossed the plains on fourteen
different occasions and was familiar with all of the experiences of freighting
and of pioneer life in the west when the seeds of civilization had hardly been
planted. The first few times he made the journey across the plains he traveled
with burros, or mules, and later wath wagons. In 1852 he settled at West-

250 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

]3ort, now a part of Kansas City. The now populous metropolis of western
Missouri was then a small town of little industrial or commercial importance
and Mr. Kearney became identified with its business interests in pioneer times
and advanced with its develoiDment as the years passed by. He began
merchandising here, selling goods to the INIexican traders. There were still
man}^ evidences of pioneer life, with its dangers and hardships and also its
picturesque elements.

In the same year (1852) ^Ir. Kearney was married in Westport to Miss
Josephine Harris, a native of Kentucky and a daughter of John and Henrietta
(Simpson) Harris, both of whom were natives of the Blue Grass state, whence
thev came to Kansas Citv in 1832, when ]Mrs. Kearnev was onlv two months
old. Mr. Harris settled in what is now Hyde Park, a part of Westport. The
district, however, was then all farming country, and purchasing much of
this farm land he carried on general agricultural pursuits for a few years.
He afterward bought from ]\lr. McGee, the first settler here, a hotel, changing
the name to the Harris House, by which it is still known. It is located at
No. 430 Westport avenue and here Mr. Harris engaged in the conduct of
his hotel through the period of the war, it becoming the soldiers' headquarters.
In early days he also invested in land in various parts of Westport. The
price of the goods advanced through the growth and development of the
country and added much to his financial resources and assets. He continued
in the hotel business until, on account of ill health, he was obliged to retire
from that field of activity. During his remaining days his time and energies
were given only to the supervision of his property which had become quite
valuable. He continued to reside with his children until called to his final
rest, and his wife also died in this locality. Of the children born unto Mr.
and Mrs. Harris four are now living and are residents of Kansas City, namely:
Julia, who is the "widow of John J. Mastin and resides at 3500 Main street:
Elizabeth S., who is the Avidow of Thomas H. ^lastin and is also living at
3500 Main street; Mrs. Seth Ward, of Kansas City; and ^Mrs. Kearney.

There were six children born unto Mr. and Mrs. Kearney, of whom four
yet survive: Mary L.. the eldest, is a teacher in Allen school and resides here
with lier mother and sister. .lulia is tlie -wafe of Frank C. AVornall. a traveling
salesman living at No. Ill East Thirty-ninth street. Lizzie K. is the widow
of Joseph L. Nofsinger. who was boi'ii in Indianapolis. Indiana, in 1864. and
came to Kansas City in 1880. He was a leading business man here and
for several years served as assistant postmaster, after which he engaged in
the real-estate business for some time. Subsequently lie bogan dealing in
men's fnrnisliing g0!)ds at No. 803 Wahuit street, wlici'c lie carried on tlie
business siicccs-fnlly and continuall\' nnlilhis deatli. which occurred on the
27th of February. 1000. He was a man well known and highly respected in
business circles and in priNate lil'e. ;nid his loss was therefore deeply mourned
by many frien(l< a- well as hi> immediate family. I'nl) him and liis wife
were born three children, Elizabeth. Lewis E. and Cliarles W. Charles E.
Kearney, the youngest surviving member of the Kearney family, married
Rollena Gilluli, and is a traveling salesimm for tlie Centr;il Coal X' Coke Com-
pany, residing in Kansas City. The two son-^ of (he family now deceased

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 251

are Francis E. and William Bernard, both of whom died at the age of two
years.

Following his marriage Mr. Kearney engaged in merchandising at West-
port for several years, after which he sold out and made a trip back to Ireland
to visit his sister. When he returned to the new world he embarked in the
wholesale grocery business on what is called the Levee in Kansas City, selling
to the ^Mexicans and others. He continued in trade for some years, after
which he dis^DOsed of his wholesale grocery house and went to New York city,
w^here he conducted business interests for a few years but was not very suc-
cessful there and again came to Kansas City, where he began operating in
real estate. He was thereafter connected with the real-estate business up to
the time when his health failed and he abandoned all business interests, prac-
tically living retired until his death. He, however, owned a considerable prop-
erty and gave jDersonal supervision to this.

Ml'. Kearney did much for Kansas City's improvement and upbuilding.
He was instrumental in the extension of the Cameron Railroad through Kan-
sas City, this being the first line here and in it he invested much capital.
He was chosen its first president and continued as the chief
executive of the company for several years. He Avas likewise a mem-
ber of the Board of Trade here for a considerable period and acted
'as its vice president for some time. His political views accorded with
the principles of the democracy and his fraternal relations connected him
with the Masonic order, while in his life he exemplified its beneficent and
lielpful spirit. Both he and his wife were members of the Baptist church
but since his death Mrs. Kearney and Mrs. Nofsinger have united with, the
Christian Science church. Mr. Kearney passed away January 3, 1898, leav-
ing behind an untarnished name and a record well worthy of emulation. He
had attained the age of seventy-eight years. His life was a benefit and stim-
ulus to the many with whom he came in contact and a lesson to all. He achieved
success by reason of indomitable perseverance and close application and gained
an honorable name because of his fidelity to a high standard of commercial
ethics. Beside other property Mrs. Kearney owns a nice home at No. 2019
East Eighth street, where she and Mrs. Nofsinger and the latter's family
reside.

HENRY TOBENER.

In the days of Kansas City's early development and business progress
Henry Tobener cast in his lot with its representatives of commercial and
industrial life and became probably the largest tobacco merchant of Kansas
City. He also invested in real estate and in other business enterprises, the
scope and extent of his activity proving a valuable element in the city's
growth and upbuilding. A native of Germany, he was born February 20,
1830. of the marriage of Henry and Sophia (Sodei) Tobener. His father
was engaged in the hotel business in Germany until he sailed with his family
for Arnoriea duriuL!. the earlv bovhood davs of his son Henrv. Thev settled

252 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

ill St. Louis, Missouri, where the father died in 1849, shortly after his arrival
in the new world.

Henry Tobeiier had already begun his education in the public schools
of the fatherland, continuing his studies to the age of fourteen, when he
came with his j^arents to the United States. Settling in St. Louis he th'ere
purchased a college course and completed his education. His first step ia
business life connected him with the tobacco trade, with w^hich he was as-
sociated throughout his entire business career. He opened a retail tobacco
store in St. Louis and almost from the beginning enjoyed a good trade. In
fact his business increased so rapidly that he changed from a retail to a
Avholesale business and was thus engaged for a few years. At length retir-
ing from that field of activity he conducted a saloon in St. Louis for a short
time, after which he became a grocer, conducting a wholesale store, where
the Union depot now stands. He remained in St. Louis until 1864, when
he came to Kansas City. In the meantime he was drafted for service in the
army but sent a substitute and it w^as at that time that he removed to Kan-
sas City. Here he was again drafted and served as a member of the Home
Guard here until the close of the war.

In 1854, while residing in St. Louis, Henry Tobener was married to
Miss Elizabeth Eotbenbuecher, also a native of Germany and a daughter of
Jacob and Mary Rotbenbuecher. They came to America in the spring of
1837, settling in St. Louis, where Mr. Rotbenbuecher learned the shoemak-
er's trade, carrying on the business there for many years, after which he
turned his attention to the tobacco business, manufacturing all kinds of
smoking tobacco, snuff, etc. His attention was concentrated upon the con-
duct of that enterprise throughout his remaining days and both he and his
wdfe died there. By the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Tobener eleven children
were born: Robert H., who married Minnie Miller, resides in Kansas City
and is a member of the firm of R. H. Tobener & Son, carpet renovators;
William married Katie Walters and also resides in Kansas City; Emma
is the wife of Nathaniel B. Terrill, who for thirty years has been conductor
on the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad and they reside at No. 2804
Woodland avenue; Frances is the wdfe of George J. Schoen, who is engaged
with the Emery-Bird-Thayer Dry Goods Company, and they reside at No.
2826 Woodland avenue, her mother spending much of her time with them ;
Frank W., who married Emily Barcoe, is engaged in business in Kansas
City and is mentioned elsewhere in this work; Edward F. wedded Mary
Mueller and is engaged in the real-estate business here; Rose is the wife
of J. A. Ryan, who is engaged in the piano business in St. Joseph, Missouri;
Laura is the wife of Dr. B. W. Lindberg, a leading physician of Kansas
City; Elizabeth is the wife of Edwin Overholtz, a cigar and tobacco mer-
chanl of Kansas City; Henry died at the age of thirteen years; and Charlie
was killed by accident in his boyhood, shooting him.self while out hunting
near Kansas City.

When ]\Tr. Tobener arrived in Kansas City he entered into partner-
ship witli .7. A. Bachman. under the firm style of J. A. Bachman & Com-
pany, iiml lii'Ofin business a- a cigar 7iianufactnror and wholesale and retail

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 253

tobacco dealer. Theirs was the first tobacco factory established here. The
firm continued the business until 1867, when Mr. Bachman sold out and the
partnership was then H. Tobener & Brother, the junior partner being Wil-
liam Tobener. They continued in business at the corner of Fifteenth street
and Grand avenue until 1880, after which Mr. Tobener withdrew from the
tobacco trade as he desired to retire. In addition to developing and manag-
ing his extensive tobacco interests he owned and supervised a large farm
at Olathe, Kansas, which is now Olathe park. He also owned real estate
in Kansas City and erected a large building on McGee street, which has
been occupied by the Smith Baking Company. He also purchased one hun-
dred and seventeen feet on Grand avenue at the corner of Fifteenth street
from Milton McGee, for twenty-eight hundred dollars, which he owned until
about fifteen years ago, when he sold at a greatly advanced price, the prop-
erty bringing fifty thousand dollars. He likewise built and owned the old
Tobener residence at the corner of Fifteenth and Oak streets, where his last
days were passed, his death occurring June 28, 1905.

Mr. Tobener had been a resident of Kansas City for only a brief period
when he was elected a member of the school board. At that time there were
only four schools here. Mr. Tobener served on the board for several years
but was never a politician in the sense of office seeking. He gave stalwart
support to the republican party, however, believing that its principles were
best adapted to the promotion, good government and interests of the public
at large. Whatever success in life he achieved was attributable to his own
labors, his prosperity being based upon intelligence, close application and
energy. Mrs. Tobener still owms much of valuable real estate here which
was formerly in possession of her husband, and since his death she has made
her home in Kansas City with her children, living most of the time w'ith
her daughters, Mrs. Schoen and Mrs. Terrill. She is now with Mrs. Schoen
at Xo. 2826 Woodland avenue.

CAPTAIN THOMAS P. FLAHIVE.

Among the men who are in charge of the different police stations in
Kansas City and by their unswerving fidelity to duty are maintaining a
high .standard among those who stand as the conservators of law and order
is numbered Captain Thomas P. Flahive, of station No. 4. He was born in
County Kerry, Ireland, December 16, 1861. his birthplace being in the
beautiful lake region of Killarney. His parents were farming people there
and the father, John Flahive, still resides upon the old homestead farm on
the Emerald isle. The mother, who bore the maiden name of Nora Carroll,
passed away during the early boyhood of her son, Captain Flahive, who
pui'sued his education in the common schools and was reared upon the home
farm, among the beautiful hills of that section of the country, his home be-
ing in sight of Ballyheigue bay. He continued his studies through their
consecutive grades till he completed the high school course and put aside

254 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

his text-books at the age of seventeen year.- and worki'd upon his father's
farm until coming to America.

Attracted by the favorable reports concerning opportunities in the new
\\orld, he sailed for the United States in 1879, landing in New York city,
on the 27th of Aj^ril. He made his way direct to Kansas City, his choice
of a location being influenced by the fact that his brother Patrick and other
relatives were residing here. Plis tinancial condition made it imper-
ative that he secure immediate employment and he soon obtained a situa-
tion in the freight department of the Burlington Railroad Company, where
he remained until June, 1882. On the 14th of that month he became con-
nected with the police department under Thomas M. Spears and was at
headquarters for six or seven years. Faithful to every duty assigned to him
and complying not only with the letter but with the spirit of the law, he
gained promotion to the rank of sergeant in 1887 and on the 4th of May,
1889, was jDromoted to captain. He has since served in that capacity at dif-
ferent stations and has now been in charge of station No. 4 for six years.
This is situated in the worst district of the city, but he has made its. resi-
dents amenable to law, laboring untiringly in the faithful and capable pros-
ecution of the duties of the office.

In Kansas City, at St. Patrick's church, Captain Thomas P. Flahive,
was married on the 2()th of November, 1888, by the Rev. Father Walsh, to
Miss Lizzie Burns, who was born in Ray county, Missouri, a daughter of
the late James Burns, a merchant of that county. Captain and ^Irs. Fhdiive
now have one child, John Joseph, eighteen years of age. He is a graduate
of the Kansas City high school and is now a shipping clerk with the West-
ern Grocery Company. The family residence is at No. 1109 Agnes street
and was erected by Captain Flahive in 1898. His social relations are with
the Knights of Columbus and his religious views are indicated by his mem-
bership in St. Aloysius Catholic church. In politics he is a democrat but
takes only a citizen's interest in the political situation, as he does not be-
lieve in the active interference of the police officers with political work. He
has never had occasion to regret his determination to seek a home in Amer-
ica, but found tliaf tlic reports which had reached him concerning its oppor-
1 1 11 lilies were true and that the road to success and public usefulness was
open to ii1l. riradually lie has advanced, and he is now filling an important
position ill niuiiicipal circles.

EUGENE G. E. JACCARD.

The histroy of Missouri in its early development ccMiters aroniid certain
French and Swiss names — names of families whose representatives are mnn-
bered among the early builders of this commonwealth, while the later gener-
ations of the family have carried on the work of their forefathers through
their business activity and enterprise, which have contributed in substantial
measure to Missouri's development. The name of Jaccard has been a most

EUGENE G. E. JACCARD.

T . . . .. '! ''ORK
PUBLIC uIBRARY

ASTOR, LENOX
TILDCN FC UN NATIONS

"S

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 257

prominent one in the state and has figured conspicuously in connection with
the jewelry trade both in St. Louis and in Kansas City. Eugene G. E.
Jaccard was its representative in this connection in the latter city until
recent years, but is now in Christian Science practice.

He was born in St. Louis, September 28, 1861, a son of D. C. and
Eugenie (Chipron) Jaccard. The father was born at St. Croix, Switzer-
land, and the mother in Paris, France. The paternal grandfather lived and
died in Switzerland and was one of the expert watchmakers of that country,
which has ever been noted for its superior workmanship in that line. The
maternal grandfather, J. G. Chipron, was a native of Paris, who, crossing
the Atlantic to America, spent his last days in Highland, Illinois, where he
died at the age of seventy-seven years. He was a man of fine personal ap-
pearance, tall and well formed, and reared a large family.

D. C. Jaccard, father of our subject, gained comprehensive knowledge
of watchmaking in his native country and has always been identified with
the jewelry business. The opportunities of the new world attracted him' and,
believing that his chances for business advancement were better in the United
States than in the land of the Alps, he crossed the ocean in 1845 and has
since been a resident of St. Louis. The name of Jaccard is a most honored
and leading one in commercial circles of that city and the house of which
he was vice president stands second to none west of New York city in the
character of the goods which it handles and in the volume of its trade. He
is a member of the Presbyterian church, as was his wife, who died in 1865.
Their family numbered four children, two of whom survive, namely: Eu-
genie, the wife of Alfred Perillard, of Lausanne, Switzerland; and Eugene.

The last named was reared in his native city save that he spent some
time in study abroad after acquiring a knowledge of the elemental branches
of learning in the public schools of St. Louis. When a youth of ten years
he went to Switzerland, was for two and a half years a student in a school
at Yverdon and later continued his education in Ludwigsburg and Stuttgart,
Germany, where he remained until 1874. Returning to St. Louis in that
year, he became a student in Kemper's Family School, of Boonville, Mis-
souri, from which he was graduated in 1877. He then again crossed the
Atlantic for the purpose of perfecting himself in the watchmaking trade at
Locle, Switzerland, under one of the expert watchmakers of that country.
In September, 1880, he again arrived in his native land and entered the
employ of the Mermod & Jaccard Jewelry Company, of St. Louis, as office
boy. The fact that his father was one of the partners in the house was not
used to procure him an easy time. On the contrary he had to do his part in
the routine work of the store as any other employe and thus gained a thor-
ough business training. He afterward served for a time as entry clerk and
as salesman and he eagerly availed himself of every opportunity for thor-
oughly mastering the business in every particular. Coming to Kansas City
in September, 1888, he here organized the Jaccard Watch & Jewelry Com-
pany, of which he continued as president until February, 1895., In January,
1893, the house was destroyed by fire, the company suffering a severe loss.
They soon resumed business, however, carrying an extensive and elegant

258 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

assortment of watches, clocks and jewelry, including some of the finest
productions of the old world. Mr. Jaccard remained at the head of the
company until November 1, 1895, when he withdrew and entered into part-
nership with W. B. Johnson, under the name of Johnson, Jaccard & Com-
pany, in the fire, casuality and tornado insurance business, maintaining the
place which he always occupied as one of the foremost business men of the
city. In 1896 Mr. Jaccard became a member of the Christian Science church
and has been treasurer of the Second Church of Christ, Scientist, at Thirty-
first street and Troost avenue, one of the most beautiful structures in the
United States. Since 1898 he has been a Christian Science practitioner.

While a successful business enterprise is alwaysl a feature in a city's
development, growth and substantial progress, Mr. Jaccard has in other
ways been active in promoting the welfare and upbuilding of the city. He
was president in 1895 of the Kansas City Karnival Krewe, which came into
existence for the purpose of adding to the fall festivities and thus attracting
additional visitors to the city, also creating amusements to keep them longer
in the community. Thousands of visitors each year now attend this great
fall festival and the railroads reported a much larger number in 1895 than
in any previous year. No movement for the benefit of the city solicits his
cooperation in vain. On the contrary, he has given liberally of his time
and means to aid in public progress and he is preeminently a public-spirited
citizen, whose efforts have been far-reaching and beneficial. In politics he
is an earnest republican but without desire for official preferment.

Mr. Jaccard was married June 18, 1884, to Miss Lena Dings, a daughter
of Frederick Dings, and unto them have been born four children : Frederick
Constant, Eugenie, Gilbert Eugene and Walter Bird. Both Mr. and Mrs.
Jaccard hold membership in the Christian Science church and he has at-
tained high rank in Masonry, taking the thirty-second degree of the Scot-
tish Rite. He also belongs to Kansas City Commandery, No. 10, K. T., and
to Ararat Temple of the Mystic Shrine and was likewise chancellor of Benton
Council, No. 22, of the Legion of Honor of Missouri. Admirable social
qualities and unfeigned cordiality have rendered him very popular and he is
at all times approachable, displaying in business and social circles qualities
which win esteem, consideration and kindly regard.

J. A. L. WAD'DELL.

Kansas City has reason to be proud of many of her residents — men
who have attained leadership in many walks of life and have left their
impress upon the industrial, commercial, intellectual and moral progress
of the country. If intense, well directed activity and successful accomplish-
ments entitle one to be termed a ''captain of industry," Dr. Waddell may
thus well be designated, for the consensus of public opinion recognizes in
him one of the most famous bridoie builder* of the world.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 259

His birthplace was at Port Hope, Canada, and his natal year 1854.
From early boyhood he has manifested a taste for engineering, and has
directed his labors in those walks of life for which nature undoubtedly in-
tended him. When seventeen years of age he became a student in the
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, at Troy, New York, where he continued
for four years, and thus well qualified for work of that character he entered
upon a situation in the marine department of the Canadian government at
Ontario. Not long after he began work on the Canadian Pacific Railway
and later he did engineering work in a coal mine in West Virginia, where
he remained, however, for only a brief time. He was then appointed assist-
ant to the professor of rational and technical mechanics in the Rensselaer
Polytechnic Institute, where he continued as an instructor for two years,
after which he accepted the position of engineer of construction for a bridge
building firm at Council Bluffs, Iowa. This was his business association
until 1882, when he was appointed professor of civil engineering in the
Imperial University at Tokio, Japan, the offer coming to him as a result
of his technical writings in engineering jouranls.

Before leaving for Japan, McGill Univen-ity at Montreal, Canada,
conferred on him the ad eundem gradwm degree of Bachelor of Applied
Sciences, as a result of his writings, and later he took there the higher de-
gree of Master of Engineering. Dr. Waddell has written largely upon
engineering in its various phases, and while in Japan, at the request of the
government, he wrote a treatise on "A system of Iron Railway Bridges for
Japan," and as a reward the emperor bestowed upon him the rank of Knight
Commander of the Order of the Rising Sun — valuable only for the compli-
ment and the decorative jewel which always accompanies the degree.

Upon his return to the United States Dr. Waddell settled in Kansas
City, where he opened an office. He has since been engaged in civil
engineering with headquarters here, making a specialty in his operations
of bridge building. So wide a reputation has he won that he has been
called upon to construct bridges not only throughout the entire continent
but also abroad. In 1904 Dr. Waddell received from McGill University the
degree of Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) and from Missouri State University that of
Doctor of Laws (LL.D.). In 1898 he published a book entitled De Pontibus, a
complete and exhaustive treatise on bridge building. Recently Dr. Waddell has
been working out plans in connection with the project for building the
Trans- Alaska-Siberian Railw-ay; and on the 7th of May, 1907, he received
a decoration from Grand Duchess Olga, sister of the Czar, in recognition
of his work as principal engineer of that railroad. This decoration is
bestowed only on persons who have rendered the Russian empire some im-
portant service.

Dr. Waddell, says a contemporary publication, ''is far from the type of
the dry scientist. He is a capital fisherman and shot and one of the best
whist players of the west." Like all broad-minded men, he recognizes the
value as well as the pleasure of recreation. There is perhaps no biography
in this volume which indicates more clearly what is meant by the term
the dignity of labor. Starting at the bottom round of the ladder he has

260 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

steadily worked his way upward, winning recognition from crowned heads
of Europe and Asia, while in America he has almost revolutionized the
science of bridge building in the last quarter of a century. He is every-
where known as a great authority on bridges and his word as a consulting
engineer is conclusive.

GEORGE L. BROWN.

George L. Brown is now practically retired from business, although he
is still senior partner of the firm of George L. Brown & Son, contractors
and builders of Kansas City, in which connection he has done much for the
city's improvement through many years, his labors being an element in its
substantial growth and adornment, while at the same time he has derived
therefrom substantial benefits.

A native of Montreal, Canada, he was born August 19, 1842. His
father, Samuel Brown, a contractor and builder, came to America from
Belfast, Ireland, soon after his marriage to Miss Ann Fullerton, who was
born in Edinburgh, Scotland. They became residents of Montreal in 1839
and about 1845 removed to Buffalo, New York. The year 1849 witnessed
their arrival in St. Louis, Missouri, whence they proceeded by way of the
Missouri river to St. Joseph, in search of a favorable location. They stopped
at many points en route but after a brief period Mr. Brown returned to
Buffalo, where he remained until 1852. In that year he established his
home in Kansas City, where he resided for five years, and in the spring of
1857 started for California with ox-teams, his route being by way of Gal-
veston. He only proceeded as far as Fort Smith, Arkansas, however, and
there remained until 1859, when he returned to Kansas City, where he
made his permanent home. George L. Brown is the second of the three
survivors of the family of five children, his brother, Robert S. Brown, the
oldest, having for thirty years figured in the business circles of Kansas City
as a florist, while Samuel Brown is living near Sedalia, Missouri.

George L. Brown pursued his education in the Kansas City Academy
conducted by Professor R. S. Thomas, first pastor of the First Baptist church
of Kansas City and later the first professor in the William Jewell College.
Following the erection of the First Baptist church at the corner of Eighth
and Central streets in 1858, Mr. Brown attended a private school therein
conducted by Professor Joseph Chandler and in 1859 entered upon his busi-
ness career as an apprentice to the carpenter's trade in the firm of Dear-
dorff & Adams. His term of indenture continued until 1862 and during
that period he was engaged on the construction of some of the prominent
buildings of the early days, including the State Bank of Missouri at Second
and Main streets, afterward used as the office of the Santa Fe Stage Coach
Company, a view of which appears in this volume. Mr. Brown also worked
on the constniction of the residence of Louis Deardorff at Sixth and Wyan-
dotte streets, and the old Coates residence at Tenth and Broadwav.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 261

When building practically ceased during the period of the Civil war,
he joined the Seventy-seventh Regiment of Enrolled Missouri Militia under
Colonel Coates and served with that command until the spring of 1863,
participating in the battle of Independence against the bushwhackers. In
March, 1863, he was granted a parole by Colonel Coates and Captain Foster
to drive a team on the freighting line to Santa Fe, New Mexico, and at that
point went to work at his trade, remaining there for two years. In the
spring of 1866 he returned to Kansas City and was again employed at his
trade by various contractors until the spring of 1873, when he engaged in
business on his own account. He superintended the construction of a pump-
ing house on Turkey creek in 1873-4, and the Virginia Hotel, at Eleventh
and Washington streets. He built the residence of Bernard Corrigan at
Seventeenth and Summit! streets, and soon gained rank with the leading
builders of the city, a position which he has occupied to the present time,
and a greater percentage of the more prominent business blocks of Kansas
City have been constructed by him, as a member of the firm of George L.
Brown & Son, than by any other contractor. Among these are the Armour
offices and many of the large wholesale houses and warehouses of the w^est
bottoms. He erected, under contract, the building for the Burnham-Hanna-
-Munger Dry Goods Company and the Burnham-Munger Manufacturing
Company; also the business blocks of Swofford Brothers, the Smith-Mc-
Cord-Townsend Company, Faxon & Gallagher, Maxwell, McClure and Fitts,
William "^^oelker & Sons, together with a majority of the large mercantile
arid office buildings. They erected the First National Bank building and
are now engaged on the New England National Bank building. About
ten years ago our subject admitted his son Samuel J. Brown to a partner-
ship. The son had served an apprenticeship under his father and when he
became his partner the firm name of George L. Brown & Son w^as assumed.
The latter now largely conducts the business, with George L. Brown merely
as an advisory member of the firm, for he has practically retired from active
management. He is interested to a large extent in Kansas City real estate,
having embraced favorable opportunities from time to time for judicious
investment. He owns a beautiful house at the northwest corner of Twenty-
ninth street and Benton boulevard, one of the most de.'iirable locations in
the city.

Mr. Brown cast his first presidential ballot for Abraham Lincoln and
has supported each nominee at the head of the national repuljlican ticket
since that time. For thirty-five years he has been an Odd Fellow and is
thoroughly loyal to the teachings of the order. He has been a member of
the First Baptist church since its organization and is now superintending the
construction of the new house of worship for that congregation, a one hun-
dred thousand dollar building, at the corner of Park avenue and Linwood
boulevard.

On the 29th of August, 1866, Mr. Brown was married to Catharine
Anderson, a daughter of Joseph Anderson, one of the pioneer business men
of Kansas City. They became parents of two sons and two daughters:
Helen Nelson, the wife of Mark Hatch, of New York city; Samuel J.,

262 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

who is his father's partner; Agnes Belle, the wife of A. L. Clark, credit man
for the Ricksecker Cigar Company, of Kansas City; and George R., who
died in infancy more than twenty years ago. Both daughters are very
active in church and charitable work, and the younger daughter', Mrs. Clark,
who makes her home with her father, is also a member of many of the
women's clubs of the city and prominent in social circles. Mr. Brown has
devoted his life to his business interests and his home, and his close api^lica-
tion, combined with his superior skill and knowledge of the builder's art.
gained him distinction and success in his chosen field of labor.

WILLIAM ASHLEY RULE.

Not too busy for courtesy, not too much occupied with financial cares
for the display of kindliness and consideration in his relations with others,
there are few^ men in business life so uniformly popular as William Ashley
Rule, the cashier of the National Bank of Commerce in Kansas City. He
possesses, too, a force of character, a keen insight, and sagacity in manage-
ment that have made him a valued factor in banking circles and led to his
promotion to the responsible position which he today occupies in connec-
tion with one of the leading moneyed institutions of the middle west.

A native of St. Louis, his life record began on the 3d of September,
1858, a son of Orville G. and Margaret (Ashley) Rule. The paternal grand-
father, William Kennett Rule, was one of the pioneers of St. Louis. His
fathex, born in St. Louis, was a lifelong resident of that city and for several
years was engaged in a contracting business, after which he became a mem-
ber of the St. Louis Shot Tower Company, one of the oldest establishments
of its kind in the country. He was manager of the business and was an
active, aggressive man, recognized as a strong force in industrial circles and
in fact in every relation of life in which he was found. He died .suddenly
in October, 1884, while sitting at the desk where he had carried on his work
for forty years. His wife, a native of Virginia, became a resident of Mis-
souri in early life.

William Ashley Rule enjoyed the educational advantages afforded by
the public and high schools of St. Louis and took his initial step in business
as collector for the East St. Louis Transfer Company and R. P. Tansey, later
prasident of the St. Louis Transfer Company. He entered upon active con-
nection with the banking business as mcsseng(T in the Hibernian Bank, but
that institution failed and he went to the Third National Bank in the same
capacity. Plis health was impaired, but the utmost care ena.})led him to
overcome any physical disadvantages and the al)ility which he displayed
made his rise a rapid one. When he resigned from the Third National
Bank in May, 1887, he was serving as exchange teller. He then accepted
a position as chief clerk in the National Bank of Commerce in Kansas City,
was elected in 1889 as second assistant cashier, while in January, 1895, he
was promoted to the position of cashier, which position he still fills. He is

W. A. RULE.

.BivARY

ASTOR, LENOX
TlLDr.N FCiJNBATIONS

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 265

now one of the directors and stockholders of the bank and is regarded as
one of the most reliable financiers in Kansas City and one of its best known
business men. He has studied the banking business from every standpoint,
understands it in every detail and has contributed largely to the success
which has attended the^ National Bank of Commerce since his connection
therewith, covering a period of many years.

Mr. Rule is also one of the incorporators of the Kansas City, Mexico
& Orient Railroad and is treasurer of the same. He is a director and member
of the executive committee of the Kansas City Life Insurance Company,
and is treasurer of the International Construction Company and the Union
Construction Company, which is building the Kansas City, Mexico & Orient
Railroad. He is also treasurer of the United States & Mexico Trust Com-
pany, and a director of the Commerce Trust Company.

In citizenship public spirited and progressive, Mr. Rule has been a help-
ful factor in all movements for general advancement and improvement,
giving tangible aid to various measures that have contributed to the up-
building of Kansas City, making it the commercial and industrial center
which it is today. He was a member and the treasurer of the committee
appointed to secure the democratic convention for Kansas City in 1900.
He is a member and treasurer of the Elm Ridge Club; is treasurer of the
Kansas City Jockey Club; and has been president of the Kansas City Horse
Show for five years. He is also a member of the Evanston Golf Club, the
Railroad Club, the Kansas City Athletic Club, the Kansas City Club and the
Country' Club and a director in the Kansas City Driving and Driving Park
Clubs. He is also an Elk and holds office in several social and commercial
organizations. In politics he is a gold democrat.

On the 21st of December, 1880, was celebrated the marriage of Mr. Rule
and Miss Lizzie Harrison, a daughter of John D. Harrison, of St. Louis,
and they now have three children. Mr. Rule is a man of fine personal ap-
pearance, amiable in manner and well liked by all. A pleasant word and
smile, which are the index to his kindly nature, combined with his deference
for the opinions of others, have gained Mr. Rule a circle of friends almost
coextensive with the circle of his acquaintances.

C. LESTER HALL, M. D.

C. Lester Hall, accorded by the profession a position of marked prora-
inence as a member of the medical fraternity, has engaged in active practice
in Kansas City since September, 1890. He was born at Arrow Rock, Saline
county, Missouri, March 10, 1845, and is descended from Scotch and English
ancestry although in both lines the families have been represented in America
from an early epoch in the colonial history. The paternal grandfather.
Rev. Nathan H. Hall, of Kentucky, was a Presbyterian clergyman of Lex-
ington for a quarter of a century and afterward devoted several years to the
active work of the ministry in St. Louis. He was a man of scholarly attain-

266 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

ments and broad culture whose labors constituted a strong element in the
intellectual and moral development of the community with which he was
connected. He died at Columbia, Missouri, at the age of seventy-six years.

His son. Dr. Mathew W. Hall, wa^ engaged in the practice of jnediciiie
at Salem, Illinois, from 1837 to 1845 and then removed to Arrow Rock,
Missouri, where he continued in active practice for twelve years. His re-
n^aining days were spent upon a farm near Marshall. At the time of the
Civil war he joined the Confederate army, with which he served with the
rank of surgeon. Twice he was called to represent his district in the state
legislature and he left the impress of hi^ individuality upon the laws enaci^ed
during these sessions. In religious faith a Presbyterian, he served as one
of the elders in his church, and throughout his entire life he stood for prog-
ress, reform and improvement. He married Agnes J. Lester and in later
years their home was upon a farm near Marshall, Missouri.

Their eldest son. Dr. Hall, of this review, was named in honor of the
mother's brother, Dr. Thomas B. Lester, an eminent physician and author.
His early boyhood was passed in a manner similar to that of most farm
lads of the period and in the free outdoor life he laid the foundation for
the physical strength and vigor which have enabled him in later years to
meet the demands of a constantly increasing professional service. He at-
tended the neighborhood schools and also studied at Kempers school in
Boonville. In 1862, at the age of seventeen years, he joined the Confed-
erate forces under General Sterling Price, but because of ill health was sent
home after the engagement at Lexington. In the following December he re-
joined his command but was subsequently captured with Colonel Robertson's
forces at Milford, Missouri. He then took the oath of allegiance and re-
turned home.

Determining to make the practice of medicine his life work he studied
under the direction of his father, also pursued his reading in Boonville and
in 1864 and 1865 attended the St. Louis Medical College and in 1886 and
1867 the Jefferson ]\Icdical College, being graduated from the latter insti-
tution, March 10, 1867. During the succeding six years he was engaged in
country practice with his father, living upon the home farm, and in 1873
he removed to the city of Marshall, where he practiced for seventeen years.
Seeking a still broader field of labor he came to Kansas City in September,
1890, and has since been recognized as a prominent member of the pro-
fession here, making a specialty of the diseases of women. He is a mem-
ber of the American Medical Association, of which he was elected vice pres-
ident at New Orleans in 1902. He also belongs to the Western Surgical
and Gynecological Society and is a member of the Missouri State Medical
Society, of which he was president in 1895-6; the Kansas City Academy of
Medicine, of which he was president in 1893; and was president of the Med-
ico-Chirurgical College and professor of gynecology and abdominal surgery.
He is now president of the Kansas City Post-Graduate Medical School and
Hospital.

On the 16th of .Tunc. 1869. Dr. Hall was married to Katherine Sap-
pington, a daughter of lion. E. D. and P('nelo|)0 (Breathitt) Sappington.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 267

Her maternal grandfather was at one time governor of Kentucky. Five
children were born unto Dr. and Mrs. Hall, of whom four are now living:
the eldest, Dr. Darwin Walton Hall, a graduate of the University Medical
College of Kansas City, who has taken post-graduate work of the Polyclinic
School of New York and is a rhinologi^t and laryngologist, is practicing
with his father and is a member of the faculty of the Post-Graduate school;
Penelope is the wife of Leon Smith, president of the Smith-McCord Dry
Goods Company; C. Lester Hall, Jr., was educated in Kansas City schools
and attended the Chicago University; Catherine May Hall completes the
family.

Dr. Hall has ever been a close student of the profession and has man-
fested keen discrimination in recognizing the value of a new idea advanced
in connection with medical practice, while he readily adopts any method
or invention which he believes will prove a practical utility in his profes-
sional labors. He is also slow to discard the old and time-tried methods,
the value of which have been proven. However, in active practice he has
made substantial progress and has gained more than local distinction in his
specialty.

FRED J. BANNISTER.

The financial and commercial history of Kansas City would be very in-
complete and unsatisfactory without a personal and somewhat extended men-
tion of those whose lives are interwoven so closely with the industrial and
financial history of the city and of the southwest. When a man or select
number of men have set in motion the occult machinery of business, which
materializes into a thousand forms of practical utility or where they have
carved out a fortune or a name from the common possibilities, open for
competition to all, there is a public desire which should be gratified to see
the men, so nearly as a portrait and a word artist can paint them, and ex-
amine the elements of mind and circumstances by which such results have
been achieved.

Mr. Bannister finds an appropriate place in the history of those men of
business and enterprise, whose force of character, whose sterling integrity
and whose good sense in the management of complicated affairs and marked
success in establishing large industries and bringing to completion great
schemes of trade and profit, have contributed in an eminent degree to the
develoi^ment of the vast resources of the southwest.

Mr. Bannister was born in Watertown, New York, November 21, 1869,
a son of Charles W. and Anne (Lamasney) Bannister. The father's fam-
ily settled in Watertown. New York, in 1808. Osmond Bannister, the
grandfather, removed to the Empire state from Vermont, where his birth
had occurred in 1786. His mother was, in maidenhood, Miss Thankful
Ely, who was born in 1757, and the town of Elyria, Ohio, was subsequently
named in honor of the family to which she belonged. The mother of
Charles W. Bannister, whose maiden name was Charlotte Wilson, was born

268 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

in Vermont in 1789. In the maternal line, F. J. Bannister springs from
the old Lamasney stock of County Cork, Ireland, the American branch of
the family being established in Quebec, Canada, in 1826, and shortly after-
ward in Ogdensburg, New York. James Walsh, a cousin of Anne Lamas-
ney Bannister, Avas a major in the British Canadian army, having charge
of the Canadian Northwest District at the time of and subsequent ta the
Custer massacree and policing and patrolling the Klondike district during
the early gold discoveries in that section. The family of Mr. and Mrs.
Charles W. Bannister numbered six sons and three daughters, of whom
three sons and two daughters are yet living: J. L. Bannister, who is a coal
operator at Pittsburg, Kansas; C. O. Bannister, who since 1878 has been
engaged in merchandising in Leadville, Colorado; Mrs. Thomas McGee,
whose husband for the past fifteen years has been identified with Edward
Corrigan the turfman, and is now his secretary and general manager; and
Miss Ida Bannister, a resident of San Francisco, California.

Fred J. Bannister came west with his parents in 1877, the family home
being established at Olathe, Kansas. The father died ten years ago and
the mother is still living in Kansas City. The son pursued a common-school
education to the age of sixteen years, when he entered the employ of the
Kansas & Texas Coal Company as local agent at its semi-anthraeito mines
at Hackett, Arkansas, where he remained for four years. In 1890 he re-
signed that position to accept the prof erred position of cashier and general
bookkeeper with the Kaw Valley Paint & Lead Company of Kansas City, in
which capacity he continued until August 22, 1892, when he entered the
emj)loy of the Long-Bell Lumber Company.

This company, now one of the largest in the country in the extent of
its business and allied interests, was organized during the year 1875, the
first organization representing a capital stock of twenty-five hundred dollars,
which was principally borrowed money. The business has enjoyed a phe-
nomenal growth until today the corporation ranks among the stron^e^t and
mo.st extensive in the entire country. The parent company and its branches
includes an investment of twenty-nine million, five hundred thousand dol-
lars, all the direct growth and outcome of the little' organization which had
its beginning in 1875. The company today is acting principallj^ as an ex-
ecutive or holding company for the many allied corporations and interests
of which it owns nearly the entire stock, the executive officers being all
those of the Long-I5ell Lumber Company with headquarters at Kansas City.
These companies control an annual business amounting to fourteen billion
dollars from sales of their output and manufacture of luinbor from.' the
southern states, coal from Oklahoma, Arkansas and Kansas, and the prod-
ucts of the western hiiiibcr mills. They employ an average of thirty-nine
hundred men and the business is being constantly broadened in its scope
and ill its possibilities.

It was into this business that Mr. Bannister entered on the 22d of Au-
gu.st, 1892, soon pa.«sing on to positions of executive' control and as the
years have pa.'^sed bending his energies largely to organization, to construct-
ive efi'orts and administrative direction. I\)ssessing broad, enlightened and

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 269

liberal-minded views, faith in himself and in the want potentialities for de-
velopment inherent in the wide domain of the southwest in the specific lines
of operation of the company, his has been an active career, in which he has
accomplished important and far-reaching results. He is today an executive
ofScer, a stockholder and a director of the following corporations, all allied
interests of the Long-Bell Lumber Company, bearing the title of secretary
and treasurer: Calcasieu Long Leaf Lumber Company, Lake Charles, Louis-
iana; King-Ryder Lumber Company, Bonami, Louisiana; Longville Long
Leaf Lumber Company, Longville, Louisiana; Hudson River Lumber Com-
pany, De Ridder, Louisiana; Rapids Lumber Company, Limited, Wood-
worth, Louisiana; Globe Lumber Company, Limited, Yellow Pine, Louisi-
ana; Lufkin Land & Lumber Company, Lufkin, Texas; the Long-Bell Lum-
ber Company, Kansas City, Missouri; Long-Bell Mercantile Company,
Stroud, Oklahoma; Long-Bell Naval Stores Company, De Ridder, Louisi-
ana; Long-Bell Experimental Farm & Mercantile Company, Bonami,
Louisiana; The Fidelity Coal Mining Company, Kansas City, Missouri; Fi-
delity Fuel Company, Greenwood, Arkansas; Kansas Fuel Company, Kan-
sas City, Missouri; R. A. Long Real Estate & Investment Company,
Kansas City, Missouri; Texas & Louisiana Naval Stores Company, Lake
Charles, Louisiana; Lake Charles Chemical Company, Lake Charles, Louis-
iana.

It is the plan of the Long-Bell Lumber Company that its executive
officers should be in control of different departments, Mr. Bannister's duties
being specifically those of general manager of the coal operating and sales
department, together with other duties that devolve upon him in looking
after the multiplicity of details and interests in connection with all depart-
ments. Having risen through successive stages from the position of an ac-
countant in the general office, he is in a position to know better than per-
haps any other person connected with the company the many details that
go to make up the organization and since passing on to positions of exec-
utive control he has contributed in large measure to the expansion and
material growth of the southwest through the development of the interests
of the Long-Bell Lumber Company. Mr. Bannister is also interested to
some extent in Kansas City real estate and owns a beautiful home at No.
4112 Warwick boulevard, which he built in 1903, and the residence occupied
by his mother at 4115 Walnut street.

On the 10th of March, 1888, F. J. Bannister was married at Hackett,
Arkansas, to Edith Nevius and they now have a daughter and two sons:
Louise, Edward and Fred J., aged respectively nineteen, sixteen and one
years. Mr. Bannister gives his political allegiance to the democracy and
i? a member of several secret societies, belonging also to the Manufacturers
& Merchants Association of Kansas City, to the Commercial Club of Kan-
sas City and the Hoo Hoos, a famous organization of lumberman. He is
particularly interested in high class horses and is the owner of several, in-
cluding Dixie Harkness, one of the best of the famous Missouri-bred, high
class saddlers. His summer vacations are largely spent in the Wisconsin
lakes to the detriment of the finny tribe, for he is particularly fond of ang-

270 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

ling. Such in brief is the life record of F. J. Bannister, who has attained
to an eminent position in business life. One of the prominent character-
istics of his successful career is that his vision has never been bounded by
the exigencies of the moment but has covered as well the possibilities and
opportunities of the future and this has led him into extensive undertak-
ings, bringing him into marked prominence in industrial and commercial
circles.

EDWARD CLARENCE WRIGHT.

Edward Clarence Wright, attorney at law of Kansas City, was born
October 16, 1863, in Cambridge, Massachusetts. His parents, William and
Ellen (Brennan) Wright, came from England in 1847 and established
their home in New England, where the father, prominent in public affairs,
filled various official positions and took an active interest in public life.

Having completed his preliminary course in the public schools of his
native city, Edward Clarence Wright enjoyed the advantages of university
training at Harvard, where he was graduated as Bachelor of Arts in 1886
and as Bachelor of Law in 1889. He won distinction in his classes, being
an honor man in several, and while pursuing his law course gave special
attention to research in land titles and constitutional law. His practice has
been maintained along the same lines. Before leaving the university he was
admitted to the bar at Suffolk, Massachusetts, and the same year he came
west to practice at Kansas City. From 1891 until 1893 he was attorney for
the Lombard Investment Company and afterward assistant receiver for the
same company until the settlement of its affairs. He was likewise made
general counselor for the Concordia Loan & Trust Company. He prac-
ticed with Hon. Edward P. Gates until the latter's election as circuit judge
of Jackson county and subsequently with Frank Hagerman until 1899. He
has since been alone in practice and his legal work has been mostly in the
line of investigation of land titles and municipal securities. He has also
been connected with many equity cases and has been employed by other
lawyers to assist in legal Avork of that character. He is general attorney for
two railroad companies and is employed locally by two other railroad com-
panies for the adjustment of all matters except injury cases and he has a
verj'- extensive practice in realty law and examines more titles than any other
lawyer in Kansas City, public opinion according him first rank as a repre-
sentative of this branch of the profession. He is an officer and a director in
twelve corporations engaged in active business in Kansas City.

In June, 1891, Mr. Wright was married to Miss Annie Glines Porter, a
daughter of Louis Chandler Porter, of St. Johnsbury, Vermont, a direct
descendant of John Porter, who settled in Connecticut in 1640. Seven direct
ancestors of Mrs. Wright were soldiers of the Revolutionary war and two
of the war of 1812, and the family is one of prominence and distinction in
New England. Mr. and Mrs. Wright now have four sons. They hold mem-
bership in the Protestant Episcopal church and while in Massachusetts Mr.

EDWARD C. WRIGHT.

PUB

..dRARY

ASTOR, LENOX
: Tl LDr N Ft-: ;j N- RATION SI

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 273

Wright held various minor positions in the church. His first presidential vote
was cast for Grover Cleveland in 1884 and he allied his interests with the gold
democrats in 1896. He has little aspiration for public office, however, pre-
ferring to concentrate his time and energies upon his professional interests,
which are continually growing in extent and importance. For a number
of years he was president of the Phi Delta Phi of the southwest, and has also
been known as a writer for several years.

WILLIAM H. MONTGALL.

William H. Montgall, whose name is on the list of Kansas City's
honored dead, belonged to one of the old and most prominent pioneer fam-
ilies. Moreover he was respected in business circles as a leading banker and
real-estate dealer and his course throughout an active business life was such
as to commend him to the confidence and trust of his fellowmen.

The family settled here in 1840 and William H, Montgall was born in
the suburbs of Kansas City on the old Brush Creek farm, which was the
Montgall homestead, March 20, 1850. His parents were Rufus and Nancy
(Bryan) Montgall, both natives of Shelby county, Kentucky. The father
was born in 1817 and was educated in the public schools of his native state,
where in his boyhood and youth he also assisted in the work of his father's
farm. In 1840, the year of their marriage, he and his wife started west-
ward, the journey being made with a team of horses and wagon after the
primitive manner of travel of the time. Their objective point was Kansas
City, Missouri, but when they reached Louisiana, Missouri, Mr. Montgall
was stricken with rheumatism and they were forced to remain in that town
for several weeks. His brother-in-law, William 0. Shouse, who had come
to Jackson county some years before, learning of Mr. Montgall's sickness
went to Louisiana and assisted in bringing him to this county. Mr. Mont-
gall located in the southern part of Kaw township, which was then a wild
district, while the present site of Kansas City was covered with a dense for-
est, in which the Indians often hunted deer and other game.

The father at once began the development of a farm and the establish-
ment of a home. He cleared away the trees and transformed the land into
rich and fertile fields, making his home on the old Brush Creek farm until
1857, when he removed into a district that is now a part of the city, estab-
lishing his home at the corner of Nineteenth street and Agnes avenue.
There he continued to live until 1882, when he took up his residence at
his elegant city home at the corner of Thirteenth and Locust streets. He then
began investing quite extensively in real estate and the rise in land values,
owing to the rapid increase of population, brought to Mr. Montgall a hand-
some competence, making him a wealthy man. He was preeminently a bus-
iness man, energetic, enterprising and persevering. Above all he was strictly
honorable in everything that he did and naught was ever said against his
sterling integrity. For forty years he took a prominent part in the public

274 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

affairs of Kansas City yet had no ambition in the line of office seek-
ing and always refused to serve in positions of public trust. Diiring
the war and at the time of the border troubles he w^as at the head
of a militia company and did gallant work in protecting the homes
of this vicinity. His early political allegiance was given to the whig party
but later he became a stanch democrat. He was moreover a strictly
temperate man, never using intoxicants nor tobacco in any form and
throughout his life his influence was found on the side of justice, truth and
right. His principles were so high, his conduct so manly and his sterling
worth so manifest that no man in Kansas City had more friends than Rufus
Montgall.

There existed an ideal relation between himself and his wife, who was
a noble Christian woman. She passed away about a year prior to the death
of her husband, who then said that he had nothing more to live for. for
though his son and daughter survived, they had married and gone to their
own homes. From them, however, he received the most filial affection and
he spent the last year of his life in the home of his son William, receiving
all the loving care and attention possible. In his death, which occurred
November 14, 1888, the entire community felt that he had suffered a severe
loss, such was his personal worth and his general usefulness. He was a
pioneer to whom the county owed much of its development and progress
and his name is inseparably interwoven with its history.

William H. Montgall acquired his education in the public schools of
Kansas City and was reared at -the family home, witnessing the development
and progress of Missouri's western metropolis. When he arrived at years of
maturity he was married here to Miss Sallie E. Ford, a native of this city and
a daughter of Lewis A. and Martha (Holmes) Ford who were nativas of
Shelby county, Kentucky, and came to Jackson county at a very early day,
casting in their lot among its pioneer residents. Mr. Ford first settled at AVest-
port, a suburb, and subsequently took up his abode on Delaware street near the
Junction building. He was a carpenter by trade, became a contractor and
assisted in the erection of many of the first business blocks of the city and
also a large number of the early residences and in the course of years he
became the leading contractor of the city, continuing in active connection
with its building operations until forced to retire a few years ago on account
of ill health and the loss of his eyesight three years ago. He is now totally
blind but manifests a most happy and contented spirit, and at the age of
eighty-five makes his home with his daughter, Mrs. Nannie Burrus, who re-
sides at Independence avenue. His Avife passed away several years ago.
Unto INIr. and Mrs. Montgall was born one son, Rufus Ford Montgall, a
graduato of the University of Pennsylvania and an intelligent and enter-
prising young man, who resides with his mother.

Following their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Montgall settled on a farm
near Blue Springs in Jackson county, not far from Kansas City, and there
he carried on general agricultural pursuits for several years but his health
failed and occasioned his removal to the city about the time of his mother's
death. He afterward devoted his energies to the management of various

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 275

business interests here. He became a stockholder in the Bank of Kansas
City and made judicious and extensive investments in real estate, owning
many line residences and valuable city property. He was a man of excellent
business and executive ability and of sound judgment, while, like his father,
his straightforward dealing was above question. He was a member of Cal-
vary Baptist church but took no active part in clubs or lodges, his interest
centering in his home, where he preferred to spend his leisure hours in the
enjoyment of the companionship of his little family and of congenial
friends. In politics he was a democrat but not an office seeker. His favor-^
ite recreation was hunting and with dog and gun he frequently went on
long hunting trips. After two weeks' illness he died March 20, 1890, his re-
mains being laid to rest by the side of his parents in the beautiful Elm-
wood cemetery. It would be difficult to name a citizen of Jackson county
who had more warm personal friends or who more thoroughly merited the
high esteem in which he was held than William H. Montgall.

Mrs. Montgall is also a member of the Calvary Baptist church and is
deeply interested in its growth and upbuilding. She resided at the corner
of Thirteenth and Locust streets until a few years ago, when she erected
her present fine stone residence at No. 1019 East Armour boulevard, where
she and her son now reside, this being one of the fine homes on the boule-
vard. She also spends much time visiting with her aged father at Inde-
pendence. Montgall street, a prominent residence thoroughfare of the city,
was named in honor nf the familv.

JAMES G. ADKINS.

By the death of James G. Adkins, on the 31st of July, 1897, Kansas City
sustained an irreparable loss, for he was one of its most honorable and upright
men. Death often removes from our midst men whom we can ill afford to
lose, whose lives have been all that is exemplary of the true and thereby the
really great citizen. Such a one was Mr. Adkins, whose whole career, both
business and social, served as a model to the young and an inspiration to
the aged. He shed a brightness around everything with which he came in
contact. His life was one of usefulness and of benevolence and the spirit
of kindliness, justice, generosity and of helpfulness permeated all that he did.

Mr. Adkins was born on the 10th of March, 1834, in Georgetown, Scott
county, Kentuck}^ and was but two years of age when his parents removed
to Clay county, Missouri, his father settling on a farm about two and a half
miles southwest of the town of Liberty. There he w^as reared as a farm lad,
enjoying the advantages of outdoor life, the freedom and the exercise upon
which so many successful careers have been based. He supplemented his
early education by study in William Jewell College, from which he was grad-
uated and after the completion of his education he engaged in the drug busi-
ness at Liberty for eight years — from 1855 until 1863. Disposing of his
store, he became interested in freighting between the Missouri river, Denver

276 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

and Salt Lake, continuing in that business until 1866, when he became identi-
fid with the Valley Woolen Mills, his business connection continuing until his
removal to Kansas City in 1880. In this way he contributed to the com-
mercial and industrial prosperity of Liberty and that he was one of its prom-
inent and influential citizens is also indicated by the fact that he was chosen
mayor of the town and was also elected to the office of sheriff of Clay county.
On coming to Kansas City he entered the Bank of Commerce, where he re-
mained for ten years, when he embarked upon an independent business
.venture, establishing an insurance agency as representative of the Mutual Re-
serve Insurance Company of New York and the Fidelity Life Insurance Com-
pany of Philadelphia. He soon succeeded in securing a good clientage and
annually wrote a large amount of insurance, being recognized as one of the
foremost insurance agents of the city.

Mr. Adkins was married in the year 1856 to Miss Mary Keller, of
Liberty, Missouri, and unto them were born two sons and two daughters.
The eldest son, Dr. James M. Adkins, is now a practicing physician of Kansas
City and the manager of the Grand Central Pharmacy at No. 404 Wyandotte
street, while his residence is at No. 333 Askew street. Charles, the second son,
is an insurance broker of Kansas City, and the daughters, Mrs. L. F. Rieger
and Miss Laura Adkins, also reside here.

While living in Liberty, Missouri, Mr. Adkins held membership in the
Baptist church and took much interest in church work. He was a very prom-
inent Odd Fellow, widely known in this connection throughout the state,
being grand high priest of the grand encampment, the second highest posi-
tion in that branch in the order. He also held high rank in the military
branch of the order, or canton, being lieutenant colonel, and his funeral
services were conducted with the honors of that organization. Perhaps no
better testimonial of his life work and his character can be given than to
present in full the resolutions of the Kansas City encampment passed at the
time of his death: "It is with a quivering hand and an aching heart that
we have to announce to this encampment the loss of one of its members, in
the past chief patriarch and grand high priest of this jurisdiction, James G.
Adkins, who died July 31, 1897. Death came to him suddenly and without
a moment's warning and took him away without an apparent struggle, in the
fullness of a strong, well matured manhood; and as the sad tidings came to
us it brought a shock not to be forgotten and a deep sadness that lingers about
our hearts.

"Patriarch Adkins was not only prominent in his physical manhood,
with his genial countenance, but prominent in intellect, in integrity, in moral
and religious influences, in his uncompromising and unrelenting defense of
honest convictions, in the positiveness and force of his character. Such men
are not forgotten but ahvays leave their impress and live in memory. As a
citizen he commanded universal respect. He was always active and influential
in favor of the elevation and purity of society and the highest degree of
morals. He was untiring and uncompromising in continuous war against
corrupting influences. We have lost his companionship and the realization
of that loss fills us with sadness. For a time we shall vainly long for the touch

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 277

of the vanished hand and the sound of the voice that is still. He loved his
brethren and was ever gentle, kind and considerate to his fellowmen, regard-
less of wealth or station.

" 'He wounded none with jeer or jest, yet bore no honeyed tongue;
Was social with the gray-haired and merry with the young.
He gravely shared the council speech, or joined the rustic game,
And shone as Nature's gentleman in every place the same.'

''He was genial, companionable and sympathetic, and he who enjoyed
with him an intimate friendship had a friend indeed and in truth, who could
not be made to falter. He carried with him everywhere, in public and in
private, a large hearted charity; and while for the base and low his contempt
was always great, yet for the poor and unfortunate his heart was always melted
with tenderness and sympathy. He was broad and high in his conception
of religious attainment and Christian triumph; in his appreciation of God's
great plans and purposes ; in man's elevation to a higher and better life.

"Patriarch Adkins became an Odd Fellow in 1856, being initiated into
Liberty Lodge, No. 49, at Liberty, Missouri. December 31, 1886, he placed
his membership in Kansas City Lodge, No. 257, at Kansas City. He became
a member of Clay encampment. No. 12, in 1858, and transferred his mem-
bership to this encampment December 30, 1886, where he held his mem-
bership the remainder of his days. His trueness, zeal and signal ability as
an Odd Fellow soon placed him upon the roll of honor and started him into
positions of preferment and prominence. He served for many years as dis-
trict deputy grand master and deputy grand patriarch; and step by step had
attained the honorable position of grand high priest. Wherever duty called
him, to near or distant lodges, whether through calm or stormy weather, his
response was ever prompt, hearty and cheerful. To know him was but to
love him as an Odd Fellow, and whoever came in contact with him, whether
the humblest or the proudest of the fraternity, it was but to feel the hearty
grasp of an open hand, the thrill and warmth of a great and generous heart.
He delighted to encourage the weak and exalt the humble. He made all
Odd Fellows feel, wherever he met them, that he was indeed their brother.
He was a safe adviser, a wise counselor, a faithful and efficient worker, and
an ever willing helper in the cause of Odd Fellowship. We who have so
often heard in the halls of Odd Fellows his familiar voice, his animated tone,
his strong arguments, his earnest appeals, as with the power of eloquence he
seemed to pour out his very soul in behalf of what he believed to be the
best interests of our great order, are deeply saddened today by the thought
that we can neither see nor hear him more on this earth. We look and listen
in vain, for he is gone. Gone to the glorious reward of the faithful; gone
where earnest labors have their rich reward; gone to where error sinks and
truth rises; gone where the false is banished, and true merit shines out for-
ever; gone where, upon his noble brow, throughout eternity there will be a
crown of victory. And as we now pause to bid him this formal yet truly
sad farewell, be it earnestly

278 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

"Resolved, That the name of the Past Chief Patriarch and Grand High
Priest James G. Adkins be held sacred in our memories; that his loyalty, his
noble services, his efficient services in behalf of Odd Fellowship will not be
forgotten. That we prize the noble record of his life as a far greater heritage
than the rich mines of gold ; that we shall always remember him as a brilliant
star in the firmament of Odd Fellowship; that we regard his pure life and
able services as a ceaseless benediction and an immeasureable treasure to our
great order; that we will hold dear his wise admonitions and seek to follow
his worthy example, and maintain that high standard, which, in his noble
life and character, he has presented for our imitation.

"Resolved, That this report be spread upon the records of this encamp-
ment."

CAPTAIN JOHN F. ENEBERG.

Captain John F. Eneberg, deceased, was the president of the Kansas
City Lumber Company and one of the leading business men of western Mis-
souri. With the passing years he prospered in his undertakings and, making
judicious investments in real estate, became the owner of property all over
the city. His residence here dated from 1880 and continued to the time of
his demise. He was a native of Sweden, born December 21, 1825. His
parents both died in that country during the boyhood of their son John, who
Avas the youngest and the last survivor of a family of brothers and sisters.
He attended public schools in his native country and at the age of fifteen
years started out in life on his own account, securing al clerkship in a grocery
store in his native town. He was thus connected with mercantile interests
there until twenty-eight years of age, when the favorable reports which he
had heard concerning America led him to the belief that he might have
better business opportunities in the new world. Accordingly he determined
to try his fortune in the United States and sailed for New York, whence ho
made his way direct to Lexington, Missouri. There he began in the grocery
business, which he conducted with success at' that point for some time. AVhile
there residing he was married on the 13th of November, 1854, to Mi~s
Emogene Jones, a native of Lexington, Missouri. Her parents were both
natives of Pennsylvania, whence they removed to Cincinnati, Ohio, and
afterward to Lexington, Missouri, being pioneers of the latter place, where
they resided until called to their final rest.

Captain Eneberg was engaged in the grocery business in Lexington at
the time of the outbreak of the Civil war. Almost immedintely afterward
he. enlisted and a few days later ho organized a company, of which he was
made captain. It was a part of McPherin's regiment and he served with his
command until the close of the war. Although he participated in many
hotly contested engagements he was never wounded, although the hard«hips
and rigors of war undermined his health. At the close of hostilities, without
receiving a formal discharge, he returned to Lexington and again became
connected with its business interests as a grocer. He likewise extended his

Bft

JOHN F. ENEBERG.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 281

energies to the lumber trade and at the same time was engaged in railroad
contracting, building six miles of the Chicago & Alton Railroad through
Lexington and vicinity.

About 1875 Captain Eneberg disposed of his business in Lexington and
in connection with a Mr. Bates founded a small town near by, on the line of
the recently constructed Chicago & Alton Railroad. They named the place
Bates City and there Captain Eneberg and Mr. Bates engaged in the lumber
business and in general trade for several years or until 1879, when they
suffered heavy losses by fire. The following year Captain Eneberg
removed to Kansas City, where in connection with two others he organized
the Kansas City Lumber Company, with offices and lumberyard at the corner
of Twentieth and Walnut streets. He was made president and treasurer of
the company and so continued in business until his health failed, when
in 1902 he decided to retire, although he still continued to hold the office
of treasurer of the company throughout his remaining days. During his
last several years he was in ill health. In connection with the lumber busi-
ness he likewise engaged in the real-estate business, making many purchases
and sales and owning much valuable property all over the city. With keen
discernment he recognized the opportunities for wise investment and was
seldom, if ever, at error in judging the value of property or its possibilities
for appreciation in price.

The life work of Captain Eneberg was brought to a close on the 7th of
July, 1904. He held several public offices in Lexington, including that of
alderman, and was a stanch republican in politics but never sought nor desired
office after he came to Kansas City. He belonged to the Knights of Pythias
fraternity and the lodge in which he h^ld membership conducted his funeral
services. He was also a charter member of the Commercial Club and was
ever greatly interested in the welfare and development of the city, cooperat-
ing with the club in many of its movements for municipal growth and prog-
ress. He was preeminently a self-made man and arose from an humble
position to one of wealth and affluence. He was very industrious, being at
his place of business at seven o'clock in the morning, while his evenings
were always spent at home. He gave close and assiduous attention to all of
the interests and details of his business and his wise judgment and keen
discernment were manifest in the success which attended him. In all of
his business dealings, too, he was thoroughly reliable and straightforward
and thus won an honored name.

Mrs. Eneberg is a member of the First Christian church of Kansas City.
She owns and occupies a nice residence at No. 1606 McGee street, w^hich was
built by Captain Eneberg in 1886. Her property interests are quite exten-
sive. She also owns three houses on West Eighteenth street, two at the corner
of Twenty-first and Penn streets, one on Twentieth street, one on Highland
street and one in Kansas City, Kansas, which properties are bringing to her
a very gratifying rental. She is the last of the old families who located in
the vicinity of Sixteenth and McGee streets in pioneer days. Since her hus-
band's death she has adopted a son, Tycho E. Gerdin, who is now twenty-six
years of age. He manages the business interests for his mother, cares for the

282 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

property, makes collections and has been of much assistance to Mrs. Eneberg
in the control of her business interests. He is, moreover, a fine musician and
very popular in musical circles of the city.

On the death of Mr. Eneberg the following resolutions were passed:

Whereas, Death has removed from our midst John F. Eneberg on July
7, 1904; therefore, be it

Resolved, That in him the lumber interests of Kansas City have lost a
true friend and beloved associate, he having been identified with the lumber
trade of our city for a long period of years and having always found him an
honorable, upright and courteous gentleman; be it

Resolved, That we extend to his widow and family our heartfelt sym-
pathy in this, their darkest hour, and commend them to Him who doeth
all things well. Be it further

Resolved, As a mark of respect that a copy of these resolutions be sent
to the family and to the lumber trade journals. Hans Dierks,

W. D. Easley,
A. J. Martin.

GEORGE S. PUGH.

George S. Pugh, during a lifetime of intense and well directed activity,
w^as interested in all that promoted the commercial importance of Kansas City
and contributed not a little toward making the city the commercial and indus-
trial center w^hich it is today. For many years he was engaged in the foundry
business here, arriving in 1887, in which year he established a foundry on
the west levee, conducting the enterprise throughout his remaining days. He
was a native of England, born March 16, 1847. His father, Edward Pugh,
also owned and managed an iron foundry in the town of Willenhall, Eng-
land, about fifteen miles from Birmingham, conducting the enterprise suc-
cessfully throughout his life. Both he and his wife died there. The paternal
grandfather was also an iron merchant in England, and thus three successive
generations of the family had been connected with the same line of trade and
all have been worthy representatives of this great department of industrial
activity.

In the common schools of England George S. Pugh acquired his early
education and his opportunities were somewhat limited owing to the fact that
he was only ten years of age when his father died and he and his brothers
then had to begin work to support the mother and other members of the
family. Pie was employed in a foundry there as a common laborer until
1864, when thinking to find better business opportunities in the new world
he crossed the Atlantic to America. He was just seventeen years of age when,
with four of his brothers, he came to the United States. They settled at
Mineral Ridge, Ohio, where all five secured positions in the blast furnaces of
Jonathan Warner, the well known iron manufacturer. George S. Pugh was

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 283

employed as manager at this furnace, his previous experience well qualifying
him for the position. All of his brothers are now deceased.

It was while residing in Ohio that Mr. Pugh was married to Miss Mar-
garet S. Burson, a native of Mineral Ridge, whose parents resided in that
locality throughout their entire lives, Mr. Burson being engaged in farming.

Following his marriage Mr. Pugh continued as manager of the Jonathan
Warner Blast furnace at Mineral Ridge, Ohio, for fifteen years, and seeking
a broader field of labor, one in which he would have opportunity to engage
in business on his own account, he came to Kansas City in 1887. Here he
established the Pugh Foundry Company, of which he became president, the
plant being located at Nos. 9 to 21 West Levee. The beginning was small
but the business built up gradually and soon assumed extensive proportions,
this being now the largest plant of the kind in the city, furnishing employ-
ment to many workmen. The company manufactures all kinds of castings
and makes a specialty of window weights, having manufactured all the
weights for the large buildings of Kansas City and other western cities. Mr.
Pugh gave close attention to the business and its development and always
had firm faith in the successful outcome of his enterprise. He was notably
prompt, energetic and reliable, never making engagements that he did not
fill nor incurring obligations that he did not meet. He always maintained a
high standard in his business life and relations, and the house which he
founded has from the beginning borne an unassailable reputation for integ-
rity and reliability in all transactions.

Mr. Pugh voted with the republican party, but the emoluments and
honors of office had no attraction for him. He belonged to the Hyde Park
Christian church, of which his wife is still a member, and his life by precept,
example and influence furthered all those worthy causes which had for their
object the development of the city along social, intellectual and moral lines.
He died very suddenly March 7, 1904. His life was a credit to the city and
his labors a tangible element in the commercial prosperity. He made many
friends among his business associates and won the warm esteem of all with
whom he came in contact in other relations of life.

JOHN TITUS.

John Titus belongs to that class of Kansas City's citizens whose connec-
tion with its business life and its social and moral interests makes him a repre-
sentative resident and one whose work is widely acknowledged by his fellow-
men. He is well known here as an optician, doing business at No. 927 Walnut
street. His birth occurred in Cincinnati, Ohio, February 22, 1864, his parents
being John and Mary J. (Sterrett) Titus. The father was a native of Brook-
lyn, New York, and the mother of Cincinnati, Ohio. Removing westward,
Mr. Titus became a wholesale grocer of Cincinnati, where he conducted a
growing and prosperous business for many years, but is now living retired.

284 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

making his home in Glendale, Ohio, where he has resided since his marriage.
His wife, however, passed away on the 22d of February, 1905.

John Titus was reared in his j)arents' home and is indebted to the schools
of Glendale for the education he acquired. In 1881 he secured a position in
the wholesale house of E. J. Wilson & Company, dealers in coffee and spices,
and remained with that firm for seven years, working his way gradually up-
ward to positions of responsibility. In 1888 he resigned in order to remove
to Chicago, where he engaged in business as manufacturers' agent, being thus
employed for three years. On the expiration of that period he took up the
study of ophthalmology through the International School of Optics, of Lon-
don, Ontario, and was graduated in the spring of 1894, He then came to
Kansas City, since which time he has been engaged in the optical business
here, and is today one of the well known and successful representatives of his
profession in Kansas City. He is thoroughly familiar with the science which
underlies the business and has given general satisfaction to his patrons, so that
his trade is constantly increasing.

Mr. Titus was married June 27, 1894, to Miss Elizabeth Sims, of Kansas
City, who was a native of Cincinnati, Ohio. They now have one child, Ster-
rett Sims. The family residence is at No. 3315 Wabash avenue, where Mr.
Titus owns a modern home. He is a member of the Knife and Fork Club,
of Kansas City, and a republican in politics, while his religious faith is indi-
cated by his membership in the Central Presbyterian church. He has never
sought to figure prominently before the public in any light, but has put a
correct valuation upon the opportunities and conditions of life, both in its
business and social relations, and his influence is ever found on the side of
progress and improvement.

HOWARD VANDERSLICE.

Howard Vanderslice, president of the Vanderslice-Lynds Mercantile
Company, has important and varied business interests, such as demand the
control of a man of master mind, who not only follows in the business paths
that others have marked out, but institutes new methods of commercial
activity, and in so doing gives proof of his sound business judgment. A^ari-
ous enterprises have profited by his cooperation or been promoted by his
purposeful spirit. He was born in Georgetown, Kentucky, April 8, 1853.
His father, Thomas J. Vanderslice, was also a native of that place, first
opening his eyes to the light of day November 10, 1827, in the house where
his son Howard was also born. The mother bore the maiden name of Sarah
J. Birchfield and was a native of Franklin county, born near Frankfort,
Kentucky, Februai-y 20, 1834. They were married June 5, 1857. The
father died March 18, 1902, and the mother November 12, 1878. In the
family were fourteen children, of whom five are still living: William, of
Pueblo, Colorado; Samuel I., a resident of Denver, Colorado; Russell M.,

HOWARD A^4.NDERSLICE.

T;.-. r^^V/ YORK
PUBUC LIBRARY

ASTOR. LENOX
TTL-DTN KC '-'r^SATIONS

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 287

of MeniphLs, Tennessee; and Maggie, the wife of T. H. Moore, a traveling
salesman of Chicago.

The other member of the family is Howard ^^anderslice, who came
west with his parents and grandfather, Major Daniel Vanderslice, on the
1st of August, 1853. The family home Avas established in Doniphan county,
Kansas, w^hither Major Vanderslice was sent as Indian agent for the Sac
and Fox tribes. Thomas J. Vanderslice there engaged in farming and also
conducted a general store.

Howard Vanderslice spent his boyhood days upon the western plains,
and after mastering the elementary branches of learning in the district
schools he attended the Highland University at Highland, Kansas. At the
age of nineteen he put aside his text-books and left home, going to Iowa
Point, Kansas, in 1872. There he spent nine years as telegraph operator
and depot agent, and in 1881 he formed a partnership with Milton Em-
merson of that place under the firm style of Emmerson & Vanderslice. They
engaged in purchasing grain at AVhite Cloud, Kansas, until 1890, when Mr.
Vanderslice came to Kansas City, where two years before he had established
a feed, coal and ice business. After his arrival here he extended the scope
of his activities by establishing a grain commission house and forming a
partnership with John H. Lynds under the firm style of the Vanderslice-
Lynds Mercantile Company, of which he is still president. They began
business on a small scale, but are today one of the largest grain commission
firms of the city. They also own a large ice plant at Eighteenth and Olive
streets, and in June, 1907, purchased the controlling interest in the Central
Ice Company, conducting the most extensive business in that commodity
in the city. Of the company Mr. Vanderslice has since been president.
Their annual sales of coal, ice, feed and grain reach an extensive figure and
return a gratifying profit on the capital invested. Mr. Vanderslice is also
largely interested in mining and oil properties, being a director in the Lucky
Tiger Mining Company, . whose mines are located two hundred and fifty
miles south of Douglas, Arizona, in the Montezuma district of Mexico, with
offices in Kansas City. He is likewise a stockholder in the Chanute Oil Re-
finery and the Exchange Oil Companj^ both of Chanute, Kansas, and of the
latter is treasurer. He also has various other interests, which constitute
him one of the leading and successful business men of Kansas City. In
January, 1874, Mr. Vanderslice was married to Miss Minnie E. Flinn, a
daughter of William D. Flinn. of Iowa Point, Kansas. He is a Mason and
a Shriner, holding membership in Smithton Lodge, No. 1, A. F. & A. M.,
of Highland, Kansas, the first lodge organized in that state, and of which
his father and grandfather were charter members. He also belongs to Orient
chapter, R. A. M., Oriental commandery, K. T., and Ararat Temple of the
Mystic Shrine of Kansas City. He is connected with the Commercial Club,
the American Merchants' & Manufacturers' Association and the Evanston
Golf Club, all of Kansas City. His political allegiance was formerly given
to the democracy, but he is now independent in politics. During President
Cleveland's first administration he was appointed and served as postmaster
of White Cloud, Kansas. He and his wife are prominent socially in the

288 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

community, being people of many friends.' In manner Mr. Vanderslice is
plain and unassuming and possesses a genial, social nature. He is liberal
minded and public spirited, recognizing and fulfilling his duties and obliga-
tions in community affairs and in individual relations, and while he has
prospered, the most envious cannot grudge him his success, so justly has it
been won and so worthilv used.

EDWARD DOUGLAS KIRK.

Edward Douglas Kirk is a member of the firm of McAnany & Kirk,
conducting a detective agency in Kansas City, in which connection they have
done excellent work in the capture of those wanted by reason of some in-
fringement of the laws of the land. He Avas born in Amboy, Illinois, De-
cember 28, 1863. His father, Owen Kirk, was a native of the north of Ire-
land, born in 1832. About 1855 he came to America, settling in Brooklyn,
New York, but after a short time removed to Amboy, Illinois, where he fol-
lowed farming until his removal to Kansas City in 1866. With his family
and about twenty-five other Illinois people and their families he made the
trip overland. Upon arriving here they camped at what is now the corner
of Twelfth and Tracy streets, finding here but a little village of small pro-
portions and with but little promise of commercial and industrial development.

Mr. Kirk bought a block of ground on Holmes between Thirteenth and
Fourteenth streets, on which he erected a house. He then engaged in teaming
and hauled all the sand used in the construction of the old St. James, Lindell,
Madison and other leading hotels of those pioneer times. He married Cathryne
McAnany, at Amboy, Illinois, a native of the north of Ireland. Her father
died when she was quite small and her mother afterward married an English
peer. Following the second marriage of her mother and when she was fifteen
years of age Mrs. Kirk ran away from home and came to America, bringing
with her Nicholas McAnany, her youngest brother. They crossed the Atlantic
with a sea captain who was an old friend of the family. A few months later
Cathryne McAnany made another trip to Ireland and returned to America
with her two other brothers, Phillip and Patrick. These children thus grew
up in America and became useful and honored citizens. Phillip McAnany
eventually went to California, where he died a few years ago after having
amassed a large fortune. Nicholas passed away a few years ago in Kansas
City, while Patrick is still living on a farm at Merriam, Kansas. After reach-
ing womanhood Cathryne McAnany gave her hand in marriage to Owen Kirk
and they now reside near Fairmount Park, where they own a fine farm.

Edward Douglas Kirk acquired his education as a pupil in the public
schools of Kansas City and in his early business career he and his brother
Phillip associated themselves with their father in the transfer business, in
which they continued for fifteen years. In 1886 Edward D. Kirk removed to
a farm near Merriam, Kansas, whereon he resided for two years and then
again came to this city. He was elected constable on the democratic ticket

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 289

ill the fall of 1891 and served for a term of two years, after which he invested
in a .-table of race horses, which he owned for four years, meeting with very
desirable success in this venture. Subsequently he purchased a half interest
in the Home Detective Agency, with which he was associated until June, 1906,
Avhen he sold his interest to his partner. Whig Keashler.

Mr. Kirk then entered the employ of the Metropolitan Street Raihvay
Company in the claim department, where he continued for a little more than
a year, when he resigned to form a partnership with Thomas P. McAnany, a
cousin, in the detective business. The firm of ^IcAnany & Kirk now have
offices elegantly fitted up in the Xew' York Life building. The senior partner
served the city as a detective for fourteen years and resigned to engage in
business for himself. He is recognized as one of the shrewdest detectives in
the country and stands high in the profession, being accounted also one of
the most respected citizens here. Mr. Kirk has also had several years' experi-
ence as a detective and has met with excellent success in that work. His life
has been of an exemplary character and his friends are many and loyal.

On the 4th of June, 1884, at Independence, Missouri, the marriage of
Mr. Kirk and Miss Mary E. Brown was celebrated by the Rev. Dr. Proctor, an
Episcoi^al rector. Her father, J. K. Brown, of Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, was
a prominent merchant and stock raiser. Mrs. Kirk came to Kansas City in
1881 after having graduated from Warrensburg (Mo.) University and taught
for four years in the AVashington school in Kansas City. She is a member
of the First Presbyterian church here and Air. Kirk was reared in the Catholic
faith. Fraternally he is connected with the Woodmen of the World.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Kirk has been born a daughter, Mary Anderson Kirk,
whose birth occurred in Kansas City, December 14, 1893, and who is now a
pupil in the public schools here. Mr. Kirk owns an acre of ground at Seventy-
fifth and Alain streets, on which he erected a substantial residence in 1906.
He also has a half interest in a farm of seven hundred acres in Aliami county,
Kansas. His political allegiance is given to the democracy. He i«; well
known in Kansas City as a man of activity and enterprise and moreover has
gained much more than local fame by reason of his detective work.

GEORGE HERBERT BUNTING.

It is needless to say anything introductory of the president of the Bunt-
ing-Stone Hardware Company, of Kansas City, for few men of his years are
more widely known and none more deserves the respect and confidence which
are uniformly tendered them. A native of Galveston, Texas, born on the 19th
of October, 1873, George Herbert Bunting is a son of the Rev, Dr. Robert
Franklin Bunting, an eminent minister, soldier, editor and educator, who was
graduated from the AVashington and Jefferson College and also from Prince-
ton University. He was born in Pennsylvania of English parentage and
became one of the famous Texas Rangers, and was the first man to receive a
commission as chaplain in the Confederate army. He was also in charge of

290 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

two hospitals during the period of the war. He became very prominent in
the I'resbyterian ministry and also through his connection with educational
work, and his life was a vital force in the intellectual and moral development
of the south. For many years he edited the Southwestern Presbyterian and
was a large contributor to religious and scientific publications elsewhere in the
countr3\ He was a second cousin of General U. S. Grant and died in the
year 1891. His wife, who in maidenhood was Chrissenda Sharpe, was a
daughter of William Linton Sharpe, widely known as an iron manufacturer
and philanthropist. He was for many years a Presbyterian elder of Steuben-
ville, Ohio, and at one time was president of the Scotch-Irish Society of
America, being of Scotch-Irish lineage. His life work touched the lives and
interests of many and in all that he did he was actuated by broad humani-
tarian principles. T\vo of his sons gained distinction in the Presbyterian
ministry, the late Dr. J. Henry Sharpe, of Philadelphia, and Dr. Samuel L.
Sharpe, who died when engaged in missionary work in South America. The
mother of Mrs. Bunting was a direct descendant of the well known Mc-
Intoshes, of Scotland.

The family of Rev. Dr. Robert F. Bunting and his wife numbered five
sons and a daughter, all of whom are living, namely : William Miller, who
is associated with his brother George in business; Dr. Henry S. Bunting, a
physician, author and publisher, of Chicago; Robert F., who is engaged in
commercial pursuits at Montgomery, Alabama; Dr. Charles Clarke Bunting,
a practicing physician, of New York city; and Bella Nina, the wife of Charles
A. Shaeffer, of Kansas City.

The other member of the family, George Herbert Bunting, was educated
in the public schools of Nashville, Tennessee, to which city he accompanied
his parents on their removal when he was ten years of age, his father serving
as pastor of the First Presbyterian church there for many years. The son
also pursued a college course there and during his college days was i^rominent
in athletic and social life. He likewise edited various college publications and
is still an associate editor, being contributor to the college paper, on which
some member of his family has held a position for the past twenty years. Mr.
Bunting is likewise a member of the varsity foot ball, baseball and track
teams and for several years held the southern inter-collegiate record for half
mile and mile runs. His college days being ended, he entered n\n>n his busi-
ness career as a traveling salesman for a Chicago house, which he represented
in thirteen southern states. While in that position he chose Kansas City as
the place of his future residence and upon resigning his position as commer-
cial traveler in the spring of 1897 he took u)) liis abode here and has since
been identified with its business interests. Seven years ago he organized the
Bunting-Stone Hardware Company, of whicli he is president, witli John C.
Stone as vice president; W. M. Bunting, treasurer; and Fred W. Ahiuee. secre-
tary. They began business in a modest way, but today the establishment is
one of the largest hardware houses of the city and the trade in both the retail
and wholesale fields is very extensive. Their up-town store is at No. 804-6
Walnut street, while their wholesale house is at No. 2012-14-16-18 Baltimore
avenue, and they are represented on the road by salesmen who cover seven

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 291

states. The business has had substantial growth and is today one of the im-
portant commercial enterprises of Kansas City.

On the 30th of September, 1900, Mr. Bunting was married to Miss
Marjorie, daughter of A. H. Munger, president of the Burnham-Hanna-Mun-
ger Dry Goods Company, of Kansas City. They have three children : Albert
Munger, Barbara and George H., Jr., now in their sixth, fourth and second
years, respectively.

Mr. Bunting is a member of the University Club, the Midday Club, the
Commercial Club, the Manufacturers and Merchants Association and the
Sigma Alpha Epsilon, a college fraternity, of which his father and all his
brothers are likewise members. He is also president of the Kansas City
Alumni Association. In politics he is independent and his religious faith is
that of the Presbyterian church. A lover of horses and of country life, he
Jives across the Missouri river in Clay county, where he has one hundred acres
of land under cultivation, surrounding a beautiful, modern residence, which
he erected a few years ago. While an active and successful business man, he
does not believe in the concentration of his energies upon business interests
alone, recognizing the value of rest and recreation and of divided interests.
His business prominence and personal worth alike entitle him to mention
with the representative men of Kansas City.

IRA G. HEDRICK.

Ira G. Hedrick, a civil engineer, who is making a specialty of the build-
ing of bridges and viaducts, was born April 6, 1868, in West Salem, Edwards
county, Illinois, his parents being Henderson and Mary Ann (Bryan) Hed-
rick. The father, born in 1837, was a farmer by occupation, whose great-
grandfather Hedrick came from Holland and founded the family in New
York in 1755. The mother was a daughter of Gideon Bryan, of Clay county,
Illinois.

At the usual age Ira G. Hedrick became a pupil in the public schools
of his native town and when he had completed the course there he continued
his studies as a preparation for business life in the Arkansas State University,,
where he was graduated with the degree of Bachelor of Civil Engineering in
1892, while in 1901 the degree of Civil Engineer was conferred upon him.
In 1898 he received the degree of Bachelor of Science and in 1899 that of
Doctor of Science in McGill University, at Montreal, Canada. In October,
1892, he put his technical knowledge to the practical test by entering business
as a civil engineer in connection with J. A. L. Waddell, at Kansas City, con-
tinuing as his assistant until 1898, when he became assistant to the chief
engineer of the Kansas City, Pittsburg & Gulf Railway. A year later he
formed a partnership with Dr. Waddell under the firm style of Waddell &
Hedrick. They did a large amount of important bridge work, including
the bridges over the Missouri river at St. Charles, Missouri ; at Jefferson City,
Missouri; and East Omaha, Nebraska: over the Miami river at Toledo, Ohio;

292 HISTORY OF KxVNSAS CITY

the Red river at Index, Texas, and at Alexandria, Louisiana; over the Frazer
river at New Westminster, Britisli Cohnnbia; over the Arkansas river and
the White river in Arkansas, and all bridges on the Vera Cruz & Pacific Rail-
road, and many large bridges for the International and Great Northern
Railwav in Texas. Thev designed and constructed the Inter-City viaduct at
Kansas City and were consulting engineers to the Boston Elevated Railroad.
Their work was of a most important character, the firm having no superior
in bridge building in the entire country. In January, 1907, they dissolved
partnership and Mr. Hedrick is now in business alone as a consulting en-
gineer. He is president of the Kansas City Viaduct and Terminal Railway
Company.

Mr. Hedrick has made continuous advancement since he took up the
study of civil engineering and is now connected with the most important
societies for the advancement of knowledge of this character, including the
American Society of Civil Engineers, the Canadian' Society of Civil En-
gineers, the Institute of Civil Engineers of London, England, and is an hon-
orary member of the Rensselaer Society of Civil Engineers. He likewise
belongs to the Society for the Promotion of Engineering Education.

On the 10th of February, 1889, Ira G. Hedrick was married to Louisa
N. Luther, a daughter of Newton J. Luther, of Washington county, Arkansas,
and they have one son and two daughters. During the fifteen years of his
practice as a representative of the profession of civil engineering Ira G. Hed-
rick has advanced to a most prominent place, being recognized as the peer
of the ablest members of the profession in the United States, while his admis-
sion to foreign societies of this character indicates the regard evinced for his
technical ability in European lands.

RICHARD GENTRY.

Richard ( icntry was boni in l)onii(' county, ^lis^ouri, November 11,
1846. Ho was reared on a farm and received his early education at a log
•schoolhonsc in the conntry. In 1863 he was sent to the Kemper school for
boys at Boonville, Missouri, where he remained until the fall of 1864, when
he left school to join General Price's army, who was tlicn making his famous
raid through Missonri. He served as private and sergeant major until the
close of the Civil war. in Company A, Colonel AVilliams' Regiment, and in
General Shelby's Brigade. He was engaged in tlio battles of Sedalia, West-
port, Pleasanton and Newtonia.

On his return lionic to Colninbia. Missoni'i, in 186;"), he entered the Mis-
souri State University, from which institution he was graduated in 1868.
Having adopted civil engineering as a jjrofc.^-ion, he at once obtained a posi-
tion on the surveys of the Chillicothe & Oinaha Railroad, which were com-
menced at Omaha. In 1860 and 1870 he was with the Louisiana &. Mis-
souri River Railroad and l)nilt a division of the Callaway county brancli of
that road, now the Chicago & Alton. In 1872 and 1873 he was stationed at

RICHARD GENTRY.

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HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 295

Little Rock, Arkansas, in charge of a division of construction of the Cairo
& Fulton Railroad, now the Iron Mountain Railroad. He built the Iron
Mountain Railroad bridge over the Arkansas river at Little Rock as a part
of his division.

He was married November 11, 1873, to Susan E. Butler, a daughter of
Martin Butler, of Callaway county, Missouri, and lived in Mexico, Missouri,
and engaged in farming and banking until 1880. In 1879 and 1880 he
became interested in mining in Colorado and promoted successfully several
large mining enterprises. He sold to Senator John P. Jones, of Nevada, and
Senator Stej)hen B. Elkins and others a group of mines at Rico, Colorado,
and the.se gentlemen organized two large companies on these properties in
the winter of 1879-80.

In 1880 he moved to Kansas City, Missouri, became interested in bank-
ing and cattle ranching in Colorado, and later in 1885 invested largely in
Kansas City real estate, most of which he sold at handsome profits before the
decline in values began in 1887. He built his present residence at 2600
Troost avenue in 1882.

In 1889 he was one of the incorporators of the Kansas City, Nevada &
Fort Smith Railroad, now the Kansas City Southern, and was its first chief
engineer and general manager and one of its largest stockholders.

In the fall of 1895 he retired from his connection with this railroad,
having sold his interests. Under his management the first three hundred
miles were built and operated, and the next two hundred miles were located
and pa,rtly constructed.

In 1899 ^Ir. Gentry engaged in the manufacture of shoes in Kansas
City, which did not prove very successful and was soon discontinued. Since
that time he has not engaged in business requiring his? personal supervision.
He is now interested in the Tombstone consolidated mines of Arizona, in the
Perigrina mines of Guanajuato, Mexico, aiid in coalmines of Indian Terri-
tory and Arkansas, and also in the manufacture of Portland cement in Kan-
sas and Iowa.

Mr. Gentry is a man of good business judgment, of very good financial
abilitv and has alwavs loved large transactions. He was reared an old-school
Presbyterian but in later life has become more liberal and inclines toward
LTnitarianism and the Higher Criticism. In politics he was a democrat from
his youth, but in 1896 he opposed Mr. Bryan and his free silver platform
and has voted for the republican candidate for president ever since and may
be called an independent in politics. He was one of the charter members
of the society of the Sons of the Revolution in Kansas City, Missouri. In
1899 he was elected president and historian of the Gentry Family Associa-
tion of the United States, at the Gentry reunion of that year. He has now
in manuscript, ready for the printer, a history and genealogy of the Gentry
Family of America.

He is a strong believer in and an 'advocate of higher education. All
of his six children entered college directly from the high schools of Kansas
City, two daughters were graduated from Vassar College and his two sons
were graduated from Yale University.

296 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Mr. Gentry i.- a son of Richard Harrison Gentry and Mary Wvatt, bis
Avife, of Colnnibia, ^lissonri, and a grandson of Major General Richard
Gentry and Ann Hawkins, his wife, of Columbia, Missouri, who seryed in
the war of 1812 -with the Kentucky volunteers under General Harrison, and
was an ensign at the glorious victory at the battle of the Thames. In 1833
General Gentry coiiimanded the Missourians in the Black Hawk Indian war,
and in 1837 he commanded a regiment of Missouri volunteers in the Florida
war and \yas killed at the head of his regiment December 25, 1837, at the
decisive battle of Okeechobee. Gentry county, Missouri, was so named in his
honor by the state legislature. General Gentry was a son of Richard Gentry
and Jane Harris, his wUe, of Kentucky, early pioneers from Virginia
through Cumberland Gap and over the Wilderness trail. Richard Gentry
of Kentucky Avas a soldier of the Revolution and \vas present at the surrender
of Lord Cornwallis at YorktoAvn. The next ancestoi*s in the Gentry line were
David Gentry, of Albemarle county, Virginia, and his wife, Mary Estes.
His father was Nicholas Gentry, of Albemarle county, Ijorn in l'i97 in New
Kent county, Virginia, and died in 1779, a son of Nicholas Gentry, of Han-
over county, — the immigrant of 1677 — the first Gentry to settle in America.

Mr. Gentry, our subject, is also a descendant of the prominent Wyatt
family of Virginia and England through his mother, Mary Wyatt ; and
through his grandmother, Ann HaAvkins, he is a descendant of William
Hawkins, the great sea captain, the father of Admiral Sir John Hawkins.
Through his great-grandmother, Jane Harris, he is a descendant of Robert
Overton, of England, one of Oliver Cromwell's generals, and of Colonel Wil-
liam Claibourne, colonial secretary of Virginia. He is also descended from
the Peytons and Smiths of Virginia and England — two of the most prom-
inent early Virginia families — through his ancestor, Peyton Smith, of
Spottsylvania county, A^irginia, who died there in 1782. Mr. Gentry's chil-
dren are Elizabeth, Richard H., Ruth R., Mary, Helen and Martin Bntl'>r.

EUGENE R. LEWIS, :\L D.

Many accord to the i:>ractice of medicine the highest place in the profes-
sions as being of the greatest usefulness to mankind. It is undoubtedly true
that it is less commercialized than any other calling, and the successful physi-
cian is without exception found to be a man not only of broad scholarly attain-
ments but of dec)) human sympathy, manifesting at all times a spirit of
helpfulness toward his fellowiiicii. Dr. Eugene R. Lewis, whose life work was
one of untiring activity and great usefulness, won well earned distinction as
a practitioner and also as the founder of the University Medical College. He
was a representative of a family di-linguished for .^crvice in this ])rofession.
His father, his wife and both her parents, together with several other repre-
sentatives of their respective families, were all representatives of the medical
fraternity. Dr. Lewis arrived in Kansas City in Alay, 1874, being at that
time but twenty-one years of age.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 297

He was a native of Randolph county, Missouri, born June 7, 1853, and
a son of Dr. Richard K. and Emma Duke (Wight) Lewis, the latter a native
of Shelbyville, Kentucky, and the former of Glasgow, ^lissouri. The father
was a graduate physician at the age of twenty-two and became a very able
and prominent surgeon, joracticing the greater part of his life in Randolph
county, Missouri. He died in Fayette, this state, both he and his wife passing
away when their son Eugene was but six years of age.

Liberal educational jDrivileges were afforded Dr. Eugene R. Lewis, who,
after attending the public schools of his native county, became a student in
Pritchard College, in Glasgow^, Missouri. He afterward AA^ent to Fayette, this
state, where he attended the Central Medical College, being graduated there-
from with the class of 1872. He w^as graduated from the Jefferson Melical
College in ]March, 1874, and came direct to Kansas City, where he opened an
office and began practice, nor was he long in demonstrating his ability to cope
with the intricate problems which continually confront the physician and
surgeon. Gradually his practice grew until it assumed very extensive pro-
portions and was also of a most important character.

In 1880 Dr. Lewis was married in Montgomery county, Missouri, to Miss
Nannie Pitman, a daughter of Dr. H. "W. and Betty Mary (Smith) Pitman,
the latter a native of A'irginia and the former of Missouri. Pier father en-
gaged in the practice of medicine in Montgomerj' county during the greater
part of his life and there he passed away at the age of seventy-five years. His
wife Avas the first woman to take a degree in the School of Pharmacy in Phila-
delphia. She is now seventy-six years of age and makes her home wdth Mrs.
Lewis, being a very bright and active Avoman, AA'hose faculties are practically
unimpaired. Her daughter Nannie Avas a student in Lindenw^ood College, at
St. Charles, Missouri, from Avhich she Avas graduated. She Avon the jNIaster
of Arts degree, and desiring to acquaint herself Avith the medical science she
attended the Women's Medical College in Kansas City and was graduated in
the class of 1898. She opened an office in the Bank of Commerce. Three
children were born unto them, but the eldest, Mary Duke, died in infancy.
Richard P. and Eugene R. are living with their mother and are now students
in the University Medical College, Avith the intention of becoming active mem-
bers of the profession, which has claimed so many representatives in both the
paternal and maternal ancestral lines. Dr. LcAAds Avas one of the founders of
this uniA'ersity and also of the hospital here, filling the office of steward for a
time. He paid for the charter and Avas manager for four years. At the time
of his death he was president of the Women's Medical College and Mrs. Lewis
was dean of the same. His pronounced ability, his broad learning and his
fitness for leadership aatII qualified him for the position of prominence that
AA^as accorded him as a medical educator and also a^ a practitioner. For tAvelve
years he Avas treasurer of the International Association of Railway Surgeons
and one of the founders of the same. He Avas likcAvise secretary of the Ameri-
can Health Association at the time its meeting was held in Kansas City in
1890 — a most successful convention, due largely to the efforts of Dr. Lewis,
Avho Avas a member of all the prominent medical societies of the city and for
three years was city physician.

298 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Dr. Lewies gave his political allegiance to the democracy and was ap-
pointed coroner, but his interest in politics was that of a public-spirited citizen
and not an office seeker. He attained high rank in Masonry, becoming
identified with the consistory and the commandery, and h^ wa^ also n, c^om-
ber of the Knights of Pythias lodge. He held membership in the Washing-,
ton Street Methodist Episcopal church and died in that faith June 8, 1901,
at the age of forty-eight years. Although his life span covered less than a
half century, he accomplished much that has left an indelible impress upon
the life of the city in various phases that led to improvement. He was one
of the vanguard in the onward march of progress that has characterized the
medical profession in recent years and as founder of the Medical University
and as president of the Women's College the influence of his service is im-
measurable.

CHARLES W. PYLE, M. D.

Dr. Charles W. Pyle, who, with an exclusive office practice, makes a
specialty of nervous and chronic diseases, was born in Lee county, Iowa, Feb-
ruary 27, 1864. His father, Dr. Edward C. Pyle, a native of Pennsylvania,
removed to Iowa in 1854, locating at Keokuk, where he engaged in the prac-
tice of medicine. After leaving Pennsylvania, however, he took up his abode
in Richmond, Indiana, where he remained until removing to Keokuk about
1854. He married Addie Wickersham, a native of Pennsylvania, who arrived
in Iowa in 1851, prior to her marriage. She is a representative of an old
family of York, Pennsylvania, whence she came to the middle west with lu'r
father, Thomas Wickersham, who with his two sons opened a foundry, which
he conducted up to the time of his death in 1882. The death of Dr. EdAvard
C. Pyle occurred at Farmington, Iowa, in 1888, and his widow, still surviving
him, now makes her home with her son, Charles W.

In the public schools of Centerville, Iowa, Dr. C. W. Pyle pui*sued his
education until he completed the high-school course with the class of 1880.
He also spent four years in the state university at Iowa City, from which he
was graduated in March, 1884, with the M. D. degree. He then located in
Van Buren county, Iowa, where he practiced for several years, after which
he spent a year in travel and in post-graduate study. In 1888 he arrived in
Missouri, locating at Rich Hill, whence in 1896 hv removed to Kansas City.
Since that time he has been engaged in special office i)ractice, devoting his
attention largely to nervous and chronic diseases. In 190?) ho became inter-
ested in the promotion of the Keysall Chemical Company, assuming its man-
agement, and now controls the ])usiness in coniuH'tion with cnrrving on his
]irofessional work. The business of the chemical company is exclusively a
physicians' specialty line and the trade has now extended over the entire
country.

Dr. Pyle was married in \Varrens])urg, Missouri. .June 28, 1905, to Miss
Katlici'inc Brown, a daughter of Judge John \\\ Brown, who had been a
resident of Warrensl)urg since 1865. Dr. Pyle has for eighteen years been an

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 299

Odd Fellow and has filled all the chairs in both the subordinate lodge and the
encampment. He holds one of the first certificates of membership to the
Modern Woodmen in Missouri and has also held all of the offices in that
order. He is well known in those organizations, w^here he has gained many
friends.

JAMES HEWSON.

Among those who have contributed to Kansas City's business develop-
ment is numbered James Hewson, now deceased. Arriving here in 1869, he
was identified with its commercial, manufacturing and financial interests —
a prominent representative of that type of American citizens who, while ad-
vancing individual prosperity also promote the public good. The success
which attended him through many j^ears of active relation with business
affairs enabled him in his later years to live retired. He was a native of
Canada, born near Toronto, February 26, 1841, his parents always remaining
residents of that country. Having attended the public schools of his native
city, he afterward pursued a college course, w^hich he completed by gradua-
tion and was thus well qualified by liberal education for life's practical and
responsible duties.

While still a resident of Toronto Mr. Hew^son was married to Miss
Eleanor A. Austin, also a native of Canada, born near Toronto, where her
parents always resided. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Hewson were born four children,
all yet living: Eleanor, now the wife of Edward L. Foutch, vice president
and treasurer of the B. R. Electric & Telei)hone Manufacturing Company of
this city, their home being with her mother, Mrs. Hewson ; Sarah, the wife of
W. T. Vaughn, of Clinton, Iowa; Myrtle, the wife of Ralph Parker, secretary
and treasurer of the People's Supply Company, their home being at No. 204
Garfield street; and Lotta, who resides with her mother.

Mr. and Mrs. Hewson made their home in Toronto until they crossed the
border to the United States to enjoy the business opportunities of the new
world, Avith its livelier competition and advancement more quickly secured.
Establishing their home in Kansas City, Mr. Hewson entered business circles
as a dry goods merchant at the corner of Eighth and Main streets, where he
conducted his store for about a year. He then sold out and erected a large
building at the corner of Third and Main streets, where he began the manu-
facture of baking powder and various kinds of flavoring extracts. That enter-
prise proved profitable and he continued therein for about ten years. He
afterward erected what will always be known as the Hewson building, a large
office structure, at Nos. 1016 and 1018 Walnut street. In this building he
conducted an insurance business with, excellent success until about 1900, when
he gave up all active business enterprises, his time being devoted merely to the
supervision of his invested interests. He thus through the last five years of
his life practically lived retired, his former activity, energy and w^ell-directed
laljor having made him one of the prosperous residents of the city. His la~t
illness was of only three days' duration and his death occurred in the South

300 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Side Hospilal, September 20, 1905, his remains being interred in Forest
Hill cemetery.

In politic.-- Mr. Hew.-on \va- a .stalwart r;^'pulilican. lliorouulily in sympa-
thy with the principles and p;)licy of the party, yet never an office seeker.
Both he and his wife were members of the Grand Avenue Methodist Episcoj)al
church, in the work of which he took a most active and helpful part. He
was one of its most prominent representatives, held all of the church offices
and was a most liberal contributor to its support and to the various societies
connected with the church. His life in its various phases was most honorable.
No trust reposed in him was betrayed in the slightest degree, and he performed
every duty with a sense of conscientious obligation. Those who knew him'
in a business way admired and respected him and those Avho came wdthin the
closer circle of his acquaintance gave him their warm friendship and utmost
regard. He left to his family not only a handsome estate but also the price-
less heritage of an untarnished name, and his memory is yet enshrined in
the hearts of those who knew him. Mrs. Hew^son and her daughters are
prominent in the social circles of Kansas City. They reside at No. 2700 Inde-
pendence boulevard, where Mrs. Hewson owns a commodious and beautiful
residence.

WILLARD AV. HYATT.

AViUard W . Hyatt, now deceased, wa.s numbered among the prominent
residents of Kansas City, wlu're he was engaged in merchandising and in
the real-c-tate lousiness. His birth occurred upon a farm in Otsego county.
New York. His father. Fitch Hyatt, was a leading resident of that locality,
whence he removed to Cambridge Springs, Crawford county, Pennsylvania,
where he lived retired until his death. His w^ife bore the maiden name of
Electa AVeaver and by her marriage became the mother of five children:
Smith, who was married, died in Texas shortly after his remo\;il to that
state. Christiana E., became the wife of Alva Adams and died in Kirks-
\\\\e, Mis-ouri. Willard W. and Willis W. wore twins and the latter, who
married Olive Ingalls, died in Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania. Susan
became the wife of .John Sherwood, of Erie, Pennsylvania, and is the only
one now living.

A\'illin(l W. n\att aecjuii'ed his education in the country schools of his
native town. He worked np<»n the home fai'in nntil twenty-one years of age
and foi- soiiieliiiie aftei- engaged in various business enterprises. Associated
with liis twin brother, he owned and conducted a sawmill and later carried
on a tannery. He afterward went to Erie, Peini.sylvania, where for ,i time
he was emiiloyed by a car niannfactnrer. His next step in the bnsiness
world wa- nia<le a- a general niereliant near Oil City, Pennsylvania, in asso-
ciation will) hi- brother. Smith Hyatt, and his brother-in-law. Charles P.
Allen. 'Vhv\ .<ueeessfully conducted their store for several years and then
sold out, after which all three viwno west to Mi.ssouri, settling in Warrens-
burg, where they again e-tabli-hed and eondneted a store. This partnership

W. W. HYATT.

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HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 303

was disriolved about 1877, in which year ^Ir. Hyatt came to Kansa.^ City,
where for a time he followed different pursuits. Eventually he engaged in
the iirocerv business with a JNlr. Holmaii in a store at 212 East Ninth street
but after a brief period he sold out to his partner. He then turned his at-
tention to the real-estate busineSvS and was very successful in buying and
selling property and also as a speculative builder, erecting many houses,
which he [)ut upon the market. He displayed keen insight in determining
the value and possible appreciation of property and his investments were so
wisely made that his labors proved of the utmost benefit in the attainment
of success.

Mr. Hyatt made his first home in Kansas City at No. 1222 Washington
street and later lived over his store at No. 312 East Ninth street. He then
[)urchased the home where his last days were passed at No. 1112 Bales avenue,
buying this from the Bales estate. He was married near Phoenix, New York,
July 27, 1835, to Miss Theresa Allen, who was born in Oswego county. New
York, and who grew to womanhood there. Her parents were Hiram and
Eliza (Perren) Allen. By a previous marriage to Miss Clara Glass, which
occurred in AVisconsin, Mr. Hyatt had one daughter, Tillie, who became the
wife of Chester Snyder and died in Kansas City, leaving a daughter, Tillie,
now the wife of D. L. .James, of this city.

The death of Mr. Hvatt occurred in .Tune, 1904. He was a member
of Bales Avenue Baptist church and took an active and helpful part in its
work. He belonged to the Masonic fraternity and in politics was a life-
long republican who, though he never sought nor desired office, always kept
well informed on the questions and issues of tlie day and was thus able to
support his position by intelligent argument. He had a wide and favorable
acquaintance here and his life showed forth those traits of honorable, upright
manhood which won for him uniform confidence and trust'.

LEO N. LESLIE.

Leo N. Leslie has for some years been one of the foremost builders and
owners of handsome residences and fine business property in Kansas City.
In fact, he has contributed in large measure to the substantial improvement
of the city along architectural lines, being among the first to introduce the
modern apartment house, W'hile in the construction of splendid business
blocks and beautiful homes his work is scarcely paralleled. He was born at
Saxonville, Massachusetts, January 25, 1856. His father, Thomas L. Leslie,
was a native of Scotland and in early life was a soldier in the English army.
In 1838 he came to America and for many years engaged in merchandizing
at Saxonville. He married Eliza Soden, a represeentative of an old New
England family, and in 1883 he passed away, while the mother of our subject
is also deceased.

When about twelve years of age, Leo N. Leslie left school to assist his
father in the conduct of his mercantile business and was associated therewith

304 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

until 1872, when lie went to Boston, where he obtained an humble position
in the mercantile establishment of Mitchell, Greene & Stevens. There he
worked his way upward, acquiring a practical knowledge of the business.
In 1874 he left that emplo}^ to accept a position as traveling salesman for
Morse, Shepard & Company, of Boston, continuing with that house for four
years. In October, 1879, he came to Kansas City and a few months later en-
gaged in the dry goods business under the firm name of L. N. Leslie & Com-
pany at No. 726 North Main street. In 1882 the firm name was changed
to Leslie & Edwards, D. R. Edwards having acquired an interest in the busi-
ness. In 1886 the firm sold out to W. T. ]\Iatthews.

In the meantime Mr. Leslie had done his initial work as a speculative
builder, having invested some of his surplus funds in Kansas City real estate,
which returned to him handsome margins. In ^March, 1887, he organized
the Suffolk Investment Company, capitalized for fifty thousand dollars, and
became its president. In less than a year the comj)any had acquired a surplus
of one hundred and fifty-seven thousand dollars. To ^Mr. Leslie was entrusted
the general management of the business and the success Avas due entirely to
his untiring efforts and judicious management. The company owned and
opened up the beautiful Eden Park, a residence addition to the city of Inde-
pendence, Missouri. Mr. Leslie has been one of the foremost builders of
beautiful homes and fine modern business properties in Kansas City. There
stand as monuments to his enterprise, commercial integrity and business
ability the Idaho, Oregon, Saxon, xVberdeen, Grand View, Summit, Windsor
and Elenor apartment houses, the last mentioned being eight stories in heiglit ;
also the large building occupied by the Adams Express Company on Balti-
more avenue between Tenth and Eleventh streets, together with four other
large properties on the avenue. The majority of the stnictures erected by
Mr. Leslie have been on the west side of the city. In all lie has ])uih and
owned one Innidred and thirty-four i)roperties, sixty-five of which Avere large
apartment buildings, since coming to Kansas City. Of all of the buildings
which he has erected none have been constructed on contract, but by day
laboi' and under his personal supervision and careful direction. He lias
owned twenty-two fiats on Locust street, ten ])roi)crties on "Sliun street, and
four on Thirtieth street east of Main. At the present time he has twenty-four
income j)roperties. lie lives at No. 4057 Warwick boulevard, where he has
one of the handsomest homes in thai fashionable residence district.

In all hi- building operations Mr. Leslie has brought to bear the most
progressive methods and introduced the most modei'n iiM]»i'o\('niciits. Owint;
to hi,- -upcrior knowledge of the builders' art, the Shulx-rts arranged with
him to construct their handsome theatre, "The Sam S. Shubert," on Tenth
street, between Baltimore aveinie and Wyandotte street. This magnificent
playhouse was built in 1006 and ojiened to the public in October of that
year. It was constructed in a mai'velously short time. ])eing in fact a record
breaker. As late as the 14th of .\ugust the .-teel structural work had not
been c(»iiii)leted and it was feared, not only by the i)ublic l)ut those interested
in the construction and management of the house, that it could not possibly
be completed in time for the designated opening night. Mr. Leslie said,

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 305

however, that it would be, and with a strong determination he set about to
make good his word. He scarcely took time to eat or sleep and during the
last few weeks kept a large force of mechanics working day and night. Not
only that, but he contributed from his private funds to make good his promise
and to furnish a building even superior to that expected or even asked for by
the promoters of the enterprise. Mr. Leslie manifested great pride in provid-
ing Kansas City with the finest playhouse in the west, and this luiildinti; today
stands a monument to his successful efforts. Upon the opening night the
house was entirely finished and Mr. Leslie had the pleasure of realizing that
he had fully carried out his promise. He has been personally complimented
by eminent actors and theatrical managers from all parts of the country upon
his successful undertaking. Since erecting the Shubert theatre he has erected
a handsome four-story steel and brick building for the United States &
Mexican Trust Company on ground at the corner of Tenth street and Balti-
more avenue, adjacent to the theatre. Mr. Leslie owns the ground and leased
it to the Trust Company for a period of ninety-nine years at a good rental.

On the 31st of May, 1883, Mr. Leslie was united in marriage to Miss
Mary E. Leonard, of West Liberty, Logan county, Ohio, a daughter of Dr.
Benjamin B. Leonard, a prominent physician of that locality and at one
time president of the Ohio State Medical Society. Mrs. Leslie was educated
at Stanton, A'irginia. The only child of this marriage is Kate L. Leslie, who
was born in Kansas City and supplemented her early education acquired in
the schools here by study in Columbia College.

To those acquainted with the life history of Leo N. Leslie it would seem
trite to say that he has risen from an humble position to rank with the promi-
nent and prosperous men of his day, yet it is but just to say, in a history that
will descend to future generations that his record has ever been such as any
man would be proud to possess. Starting in life in an humble clerkship he
has steadily risen and at all times has commanded the respect of his business
associates and the admiration of his contemporaries. He has never made an
engagement that he has not filled nor incurred obligations that he has not
met. Kansas City owes much of her substantial improvement and present
attractiveness from an architectural standpoint to his labors and success and
the most envious cannot grudge him his success, for it is the logical reward of
capable management and honorable effort.

ROBERT PEET.

Without any special advantages or opportunities in early life Robert Peet
made steady progress in the business world until he gained a prominent place
among the most successful men of the entire west. A native of England, he
was born in Cambridgeshire, August 24, 1843. His parents likew^ise resided
in that country, both the father and mother passing aAvay there, the death of
the former occurring during the early childhood of their son Robert.

306 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Robert Peet received but limited educational privileges, attending only
the public schools in his native town, and he put aside his text-books at a
comparatively early age. About 1861 he and his brother William sailed for
America, landing in New York city, whence they went direct to Cleveland,
Ohio. There they had an uncle living, who was engaged in tlie soap manu-
facturing business, and the nephews began work there in the soap factory.
After a few years, however, ^^'illia^l withdrew from active connection with
the business and worked at the carpenter's trade, but Robert Peet continued
as a soap manufacturer.

He remained in Cleveland until 1872, when he and his brother William
came to Kansas City, where they at once established a soap factory. Their
first place of business was a small plant on McGee street, but their trade soon
increased and they removed to a larger factory at the corner of Main street
and the Levee, where they conducted business for several years. Their busi-
ness constantly developed so that after a time they were again forced to seek
enlarged quarters and they erected a very commodious factory in Armour-
dale at the corner of Adams and Osage streets. Here Robert Peet looked
after the manufacturing part of the business, while his brother William
attended to the office. They conducted the enterprise, which constantly grew
in volume and importance, until a large force of workmen was employed and
all kinds of soap manufactured. The business is still being conducted and
the product is now in use all over the world. Today the factor}' is the largest
of the kind in the entire west. The firm is now, and has always been, known
by the name of the Peet Brothers Manufacturing Company and the present
Officers are: William Peet, president; W. James Peet, vice president; Albert
W. Peet, secretary and treasurer.

While residing in Cleveland, Ohio, Robert Peet Avas married to Miss
Sarah J. Gunton, a native of England, as were her parents, Mr. and Mrs.
Richard Gunton, who were born in Cambridgeshire, and were there neighbors
of the Peet family. Mr. Gunton resided in Cleveland, Ohio, for many years
and his wife died there. After her death he came to make his home with
Mr. and Mrs. Peet. He continued to reside here until his demise. There
were two children born unto our subject and his Avife: William James, who
married Miss Katherine Shannon, of St. Joseph, Missouri, and is now vice
president of the Peet ]5rothers ^lanufacturing Company and resides at No.
3766 Washington boulevard; and Eliza, who became the wife of Aubrey G.
Bartlett, of this city, and died here, leaving a daughter, Nettie Estelle, who
is now the wife of Roy J. Gregg, who is engaged in the telephone business in
Kansas City.

Mr. Poet \'otcd with the republican imily. but was never an oflice seeker.
He affiliated with the Masonic fraternity and both he and his wife held mem-
bership in the Episcopal church. They first resided at No. 1016 Charlotte
street and later maintained their residence at the old Peet home at No. 1313
Troost avenue, wiiere ihe death of Rol)ert Peet occurred. Since his death
Mrs. Peet has made her home in Kansas City with her son at No. 3766 Wash-
ington boulevard. She is still interested in the soap business and has much
valuable property here.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 307

The death of Mr. Peet occurred in April, 1900, when he was fifty-
seven years of age. As the years passed he gained a gratifying measure of
success, but he never selfishly hoarded his wealth. On the contrary, he was
a man of charitable and benevolent spirit and gave freely of his means to
aid others and to promote any worthy cause. He certainly deserved much
credit for w^hat he accomplished, as he came to America empty-handed and
won success through the recognition and utilization of opportunities.

WILLIAM ALLEN WILLIAMS.

William Allen Williams, connected wdth various corporate interests,
including the Kaw Valley Construction Company, the Williams Mining
Company and the Orient Townsite Company, and likewise the owner of
considerable real estate in Kansas City, where he maintains his residence,
was born at Fond du Lac, W^isconsin, June 17, 1857. His father, William
Allen, was a hardware merchant and a native of Wales, whence he came to
America in his boyhood. In 1861 he removed to Sacramento, California,
and in 1872 located at Palmyra, Missouri, where he died soon afterward.
His wife, Mary P. Wheeler, was a native of Pennsylvania.

William A. Williams pursued his education in the public schools of
Sacramento, California, and Palmyra, Missouri, and when his intellectual
training was thus concluded he became telegraph operator on the Hannibal
& St. Joseph Railroad. After a short time he was made station agent, and
subsequently was given charge of the terminal for the Missouri Pacific Rail-
way at Little Rock, Arkansas, there continuing in that capacity from 1880
until 1891. Lie next became general manager and had charge of the con-
struction of the Pittsburg & Gulf Railway, with headquarters at Texarkana
until 1897. In that year he went to Quincy, Illinois, as general manager
of the Stillwell lines between Quincy and Omaha, in which position he re-
mained until 1900, when he returned to Kansas City and organized the Kaw
Valley Construction Company, which secured the contract for all construc-
tion of the Kansas City, Mexico & Orient Railway within the United States.
This company was organized with W. P. Robinson, formerly manager of
the St. Joseph & Grand Island Railway Company, as president, and Mr.
Williams as vice-president. Upon the death of the former in 1904, Mr.
Williams purchased his interest from his widow and is now sole proprietor
and president of the company. He is also president and half owner of the
Williams Mining Company, zinc miner.s of Joplin, Missouri, and president
of the Orient Townsite Company. Lie is largely interested in Kansas City
and other real estate and makes his home on his farm twelve miles south of
Kansas City, where he has placed improvements to the value of fifty thou-
sand dollars. He is a breeder of standard trotting horses, and at one time
owned Highwood, a horse of national reputation and the sire of some of
the fastest trotting stock in America.

308 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

On the 8th of October, 1896, Mr. Williams was married to Mi.ss Adele
M. Dally, a daughter of William Dally, of New Orleans, and they have
three daughters, Willa, Adele and Allene, all yet at h(»nie. ^Ir. Williams
is a Knight Templar and a member of the INIystic Shrine. He likewise be-
longs to the Royal Arcanum and to the Elm Ridge Club. HLs political
preference is for the republican party, l)ut he is not active in its ranks.
He holds membership with the Presbyterian church at Westport, and is in-
terested in the moral and intellectual progress as well as the material devel-
opment ajid upbuilding of the community in which he resides. Any one
meeting Mr. "Williams would know at once that he is an individual embody-
ing all the elements of what in this country we term a ''square" man — one
in whom to have confidence, a dependable man in any relation and any
emergency. His quietude of deportment, his easy dignity, his frankness
and cordiality of address, with the total absence of anything sinister or any-
thing to conceal, foretoken a man who is readv to meet anv obligation of
life with the confidence and courage that come of conscious personal ability,
right conception f)f things and an habitual regard for what is best in the
exercise of human activities.

GEORGE J. EYSSELL.

George J. Eyssell was numbered among those of foreign birth who,
coming to America, have found in the business conditions here the opportu-
nities for a successful and progressive career. For a long period ^Ir. Eyssell
was prominently associated with mercantile interests in Kansas City and main-
tained ii ])().-iti(»ii ill public regard which caused his death to l)e deeply re-
gretted when on the 17th of February, 1908, he passed away.

A native of Germany, he was born at Rinteln. on the 28d of December,
1855. His father. Otto Eyssell, was also a native of that country, where he
spent his cntii-c life. He wedded Marie Boedeker and following her hus-
band's demise she came to America in 1880, settling in Kansas City. There
were ten children in Iheir family, eight sons and two daughters, and seven of
the sons arc now engaged in the drug husine.ss. George J. Eyssell helped to
educate them all and l»ring them to this country. Tlic mcnibers of the fam-
ily are: Hugo. Fred. August. \\'illiam and Otto, all of whom liave gained a
creditable ])lace as druggists in the business circles of Kansas City: K]\\\\. who
is living in T'ortland. Oregon: Moritz. of St. Loiii^: I'Jinna. the wife of D. G.
Landes: and Mathilde.

George J. Eyssell |)ursued hi< education in tlie .-c1i(»ols of the fathci-land
and served lii.- appi'eiiticcsliip in ;i drug -tore in Urcnicn. (ierniany. He lost
his father in .binuiU'v. IST:!. He wa- at that tim<' seventeen years of age and
was the eldest of the family of ten cliildrt'n. <o that hi- hrother- and <i<ters
all looked to him for guidance and his motlu^r depended hirgely upon him to
take his f;Uhei""< place in the household. 'IMiinkinu that he miuJit find bet-
ter oi)portunitit's in tlu' new woi-ld and more rapidly acquire a competence,

GEORGE J. EYSSELL.

. ' ■ ORK i
PUBLIC x^iBRARY

ASTOR, LENOX
TILDEN FOUK»v\TIONS

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 311

he emigrated to the United States, landing in New York on Decoration Day,
1873. Hi^ first stop was in Dayton, Ohio, and later he went to Hannibal,
Missouri, and from there to St. Louis. In the fall of 1874 he landed in
Leavenworth, Kansas, where he clerked for nearly two years. Coming to
Kansas City at the end of that time, he was employed as clerk in the drug
store of Ford & Arnold at the corner of Fifth and Main streets from 1878
until 1878. Ambitious to engage in business on his own account and feeling
sure of success, his mother managed to make a loan of two thousand dollars
on their home, having his promise to forward this amount to the next brother
to establish himself in business. This sum has wandered down the line of
eight brothers. With this start George J. Eyssell ventured into business in
April, 1878 at 1038 Union avenue, one week before the first train ran into the
Union Depot, and later he jDurchased the building which he occupied, devoting
all of his life to the drug trade, his close attention, unremitting diligence and
careful management enabling him to build up and carry on a most success-
ful commercial enterprise. In addition to this he was never unmindful of the
dutv which he owed to his faniilv and in fact was most generous in the assist-
ance which he rendered to his younger brothers and sisters. He sent to each of
his brothers the money necessarj^ to pay their passage to America and aided
them in their business careers. His mother and the two youngest children came
to Kansas City in 1883. As time passed and his financial resources increased
Mr. Eyssell purchased other property beside his Ijusiness block and as he
never invested for speculative purposes but always kept the property which
he bought, he owned at the time of his death some good income paying
realty. In 1885 he erected the residence which the family now occupy at
No. 1744 AVashington street. At the time it was built it was considered a
good ways out Ijut the city has since developed so largely that it is now con-
sidered within close distance of the business district.

In 1880, in Hannibal, Missouri, occurred the marriage of Mr. Eyssell
and Miss Emma Boedeker, who was born in that city, a daughter of Moritz
Boedeker, a native of Germany, who came to America in 1852 and located
first in Dayton, Ohio. He afterward removed to Hannibal, Missouri, in 1880
and there lived for many years but spent his last days in Kansas City, where
he died in 1907 at the advanced age of eighty-two years. His wife bore the
maiden name of Catherine Rott, is also a native of Germanv and is now a
resident of Kansas City. Unto Mr. and Mrs. Eyssell were born two children:
Mathilda, the wife of William H. Wittig; and George, who is still in school.

Mr. Eyssell was always deeply interested in the welfare of Kansas City
and did everything in his power to promote its interests and upbuilding.
He belonged to the Elks Lodge, was a member of the Turn Verein and was
■one of the founders of the German Hospital, in the work of which he was
greatly interested. In fact he did nuich along charitable lines and was a
man of broad humanitarian principles, who responded readily to any tale
of sorrow or distress. Throughout his entire life he manifested a spirit of
helpfulness, not only to his family and his kindred but to many with whom
he came in contact. His acts of charity were always performed most unos-
tentatiously and there were many occasions when he quietly rendered aid that

312 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

was known only to himself and the recipient. He leaves to hi? family a
memory that is sacredly cherished and which is as a blessed benediction to
those who knew him.

EDWARD LOWE MARTIN.

Among Kansas Citv's busine&s men .none are more closelv identified
with the growth and best interests of the city than Edward Lowe Martin,
who has made his home here for forty years, a period within which Kansas
City has attained her present proud position, fighting with other metropolitan
centers for leadership in the world of commerce, science, art and letters. For
many years Mr. Martin has been known for his sterling qualities, his fearless
loyalty to his honest convictions, his sturdy opposition to misrule in municipal
affairs and his clear-headedness, discretion and conduct as manager and leader.
Hls career in business has been one of success, and he has also given some of
the best efforts of his life to the purification and elevation of municipal
government. For three decades he has figured prominently in connection
with the city's welfare and wdth the promotion of financial and railway in-
terests here.

A native of Kentucky, he was born in Ma.ysville, Mason county, on the
12th of March, 1842, his parents being William and Margaret (Sheridan)
Martin, who emigrated from Belfast, Ireland, in 1822, and located in Mays-
ville, Kentuck3\ The ancestry is Scotch-Irish, and the paternal grandfather
was conspicuous in the Irish rebellion of 1798. The mother died in 1858, the
father surviving until 1864. He followed the boot and shoe business during
his residence in Kentucky and there reared his family of six sons and two
daughters, all of whom have now passed away with the exception of Edw^ard
L. Martin, of this review, and Anna, now the wife of R. G. McDonald, of
Las Vegas, New Mexico.

Edward Lowe Martin pursued his education in the j>rivate schools and
in an academy in his native city until he had attained the age of sixteen years,
when he entered business life as shipi)ing clerk in a wholesale grocery house.
He rose rapidly, promotion coming to liiin in recognition of his trustworthi-
ness, business ability and nnnbaling energy. When the Civil war broke ont
in 1861 he was placed in full charge of the business, then the largest mercan-
tile enterprise in the city, his employer, Isaac Nelson, having been arrested
and imprisoned in Fort Ijafayette as a Confederate sympathizer. Mr.
Martin then closed up the business and turned over the ))roceeds to Mr.
Nelson's father. This done, he accepted a ])osition as head bookkeeper in
the largest hardware store in that section of Kentucky, continuing in that
capacity until 1864, when he resigned in order to acce)>t a similar position
in one of the extensive wholesale grocery houses of Cincinnati, Ohio. His
business capacity and enterprise won further recognition there, when, after
a year, he was admitted to a partnershi]). contiiming witli tlie honse nntil
1868.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 313

That year witnessed the arrival of Mr. Martin in Kansas City, where he
embarked in the wholesale liquor business, building a large distillery and
conducting it under the name of the Kansas City Distilling Company. Later
he consolidated his business with that of the Distillers & Cattle Traders
Company and retired from that field of activity. At a later date he organized
the Merchants' Bank, Avhich he conducted for a time and then closed out the
business, paying off every depositor in full. In the meantime Mr. Martin
had become a recognized leader in political circles and has ever stood for
reform and improvement in municipal life. In 1873 he was elected mayor
on the reform ticket and his administration rescued the city's affairs from
ring rule and fraud management and placed the municipal interests on an
honest basis that has since been mantained, his course receiving the endorse-
ment of all public-spirited men having the welfare of the city at heart. While
mayor he inaugurated the present waterworks system and signed the franchist
for the building of the plant. He also secured from congress the charter for
the bridge now used by the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railroad Com-
pany. He remained one of the most prominent and active members of the
Democratic party here until recent years, when he has retired from politics
to devote his time to private business affairs. For twenty-one years, however,
he was a member and organizer of the board of education, this being the long-
est term served by any member. He acted as district delegate to the first Chi-
cago convention which nominated Grover Cleveland for the presidency and
was a delegate-at-large to the democratic national convention at St. Louis.
He was once offered the nomination for congress, but refused to become a
candidate on account of the pressure of his private business affairs.

Aside from the business alreadj^ mentioned as claiming the time and
attention of Mr. Martin, he has figured in connection with other important
lines of industrial and financial activity. He Avas the originator and one of
the builders of the Kansas City Suburban Belt Railway and the Kansas City,
Pittsburg & Gulf Railway, and of both he served as president for many years.
That he is a man of resourceful ability, unwearied energy and keen discern-
ment is a uniformly accepted fact, and hLs services have, therefore, been
sought in the conduct and management of various important business in-
terests. He has been a director in several Kansas City banks and vice pres-
ident of the Missouri, Kansas & Texas Trust Company, now the Guardian
Trust Company. He was formerly interested in the Metropolitan Street Rail-
way Company, but has sold his stock in this. He became one of the origi-
nators of the Kansas City, Lawrence & Topeka Railroad Company, which
built that part of the Santa Fe System between Kansas City and De Soto,
Kansas, changing the terminus from Atchison to Kansas City. He is a
charter member of all commercial organizations framed in Kansas City
since 18'68, in which connection he has done much to promote trade relations
and thereby promote the growth and prosperity of the city, which always
depends upon its commercial and industrial interests.

On the 10th of December, 1861, was celebrated the marriage of Edward
L. Martin and Miss Mary Elizabeth Ricketts, a Caughter of R. M. Ricketts,
of Maysville, Kentucky, and a representative of one of the oldest families

Q

14 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

of the state. Mr. and Mrs. Martin have a daughter and son: Luki M., the
wife of Thomas E. Gaines; and Edward P.. who is treasurer of the Kelly
Milling Company of Kansas City. j\lr. ^hirtin 1ul< been very liberal to charit-
able and i3hilanthropic movements and is in vital sympathy with young
men and with the cause of their advancement, and his life is a benefit and
stimulus to them and a lesson to all. He has infused into them much of his
own progressive spirit and has stimulated them to put forth their best efforts
in the accomplishment of honorable purposes. In consequence of his prom-
inence in political, business and social life, he has a wide acquaintance and
has gained a host of warm friends, whose high and sincere regard, recognizing
his genuine worth, he fully possesses. He has held, and yet holds, many
advanced ideas on questions of governmental policy. There Ls no doubt that
had he entered into the methods of many politicians he could have filled
almost any office he had da-^ired ; but with him principle is above party, purity
in municipal affairs above personal interest.

EDWIN R. DURHAM.

Edwin R. Durham, who is serving for the third term as United States
marshal for the western district of Missouri, was born at Canton, Illinois,
August 1, 1853. His grandfather, Adam Durham, was a farmer, living in
New Jersey. He w-as descended from a family of English lineage. Jonathan
M. Durham, the father, came to Illinois in 1850 and located in Fulton county.
He was also a farmer by occupation. He enlisted for service in the Civil
war ill Augu.-t, l.S()2, as a member of the Eighty-fifth Illinois Infantry, and
died in the hospital at Bowling Green, Kentucky, .lanuary 18, 1863. His
wife, Mary N. (Brown) Durham, a native of A^irginia, L- now livinu in
Harrison county, Missouri.

Edwin R. Durham, having spent the first twelve years of his life in the
state of his nativity, accompanied his mother to Harrison county in 1866
and there attended the country schools until 1871, when he returned to
Illinois, continuing his education in the graded schools and the academy at
Prairie City, that state. He finished his course there in 1874 and returned to
Harrison county, Missouri, in 1875. He afterward engaged in teaching in
the country schools for several years prior to the time when he entered upon
official service as a deputy in the office of tlu' county collector. For two years
he filled that ]»o.<itiou and i'm- tliii'ti'en years was deputy comity clerk. II
also held other township and city offices at Bethany, Hairi-nu county, Mis-
souri, and in 1S!>5 was api)ointed chief clerk of the de])arlnient of education
at Jefferson City, which office he held until .Inly 1. 180S. wlien he received the
appointment from {'resident McKinley to the ])(),--itiou of United States
mar.<hal for the wi'stern district of ^lissouri. He was again appointed by
President Roosevelt in 1902 and unci' more in 1906, so that his present term
will cover a service of twelve years in that oHice — years marked by the utmost
fidelitv in the discharge of his duties.

('

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 315

On the 14th of February, 1877, Mr. Durham was married to Miss Lottie
McCkire, a daughter of Joseph McChire, of Bethany, Missouri. They have
two children: Grace, the Avife of Charles E. Scovern, bookkeeper for the
Long-Bell Lumber Company of Kansas City; and Bertie A^irginia, who be-
came the Avife of L. B. Hanson, of Glenwood, Iowa, and died October 18, 1890.

Mr. Durham holds membership with the Kansas City Athletic Club
and Avith the Masonic lodge. In politics he is a stahvart republican, and in
Harrison county served for several years as chairman of the republican
county central committee, and also as a member of the congressional and
judiciary committees. He belongs to the Christian church and is interested
in many good Avorks done in the name of charity and religion. He is noAV
president of the Kansas City Hospital Day Association, Avhich he aided largely
in organizing. It is a society for aiding Kansas City hospitals in doing
charitable Avork. His broad humanitarianism is manifest in many ways,
while his deep and sincere interest in his felloAvmen finds expression in the
social disposition and genial nature that render him personally popular.

JUDGE EDGAR B. PFOST.

Judge Edgar B. Pfost, of Kansas City, is at the present time connected
Avith the real-estate business and has large mining interests at Joplin, Mis-
souri. He is known throughout the state as one of the promoters of fraternal
organizations, gaining a Avide acquaintance through his labors in this regard.
He Avas born in RavensAvood, West Virginia, May 14, 1863, a son of M. D. L.
and Martha Olive Pfost. The father is still living at Urieh, Missouri, but the
mother died in 1892.

In the public schools of Montrose, Henry county, Missouri, Judge Pfost
pursued his education and afterAvard Avent to Barbour county, Kansas, in 1885.
For five years he Avas there engaged in ranching, and in 1893 he went to
Topeka, Kansas, to accept an appointment as officer in the state reform school,
serving in that capacity for tAvo years. In 1895 he became a resident of
Kansas City, Kansas, and AA'as appointed judge of the city court by Governor
J. W. Leedy, thus continuing in charge of judicial interests at that place for
tAvo years. In 1897 he Avas elected president of the Fireside, a fraternal in-
surance society, and remained as its leading officer for three years, after
which he Avas chosen royal prophet of the Ancient Order of Pyramids, also
a fraternal insurance organization, in Avhich position he continued until the
order amalgamated Avith the American Guild, a similar society, in the early
part of 1905. Judge Pfost was then made manager of the Avestern department
Avith headquarters at Kansas City, ffiling the position until the spring of 1907,
when he retired in order to devote his time to his mining interests. He has
valuable mining properties at Joplin, Missouri, and their development and
control make extensive demands upon his time and attention. He also OAvns
considerable real estate, having made judicious iuA^estment in property, which
noAV returns a gratifving income annuallv.

316 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

In 1887 Judge Pfost was united in marriage to Miss Amanda E. Fossett,
at Medicine Lodge, Kansas, and unto them were born two children, Alpha and
Gladys. Judge Pfost was again married on the 1st of September, 1903, his
second union being with Josephine Zellery, of Kansas City, who was born in
Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, March 17, 1879. Both Judge and Mrs. Pfost are
members of the American Guild, and he is also prominent and popular in
various social and fraternal organizations, holding membership with the
Masons, the Elks, the Odd Fellows, the ]\Iodern AVoodmen of America, the
Woodmen of the AVorld, the Fraternal Aid and the Modern Brotherhood of
America. He owns a beautiful home, which he and his family occupy, at
No. 2029 Prospect avenue. His salient characteristics are those of leadership,
and he is regarded as an influential man, who has always cast the weight of
his influence for the public good and in support of those beneficent and
helpful principles on which the different fraternal organizations are based.

JOHN CALVIN McCOY.

. A life history should ever be the record of continuous progress, for talents
grow by use and powers develop through activity. This statement finds veri-
fication in the life of John Calvin McCoy, now deceased, who for twenty years
was a commission merchant at the stock yards of Kansas City and for many
years was president of the Stock Yards Exchange. He was likewise engaged
in the grain business here for a number of years and belonged to one of the
pioneer families of Kansas City, so that throughout his life he was
closely associated with its interests and its upbuilding.

His ])irth occurred here on the 8th of March, 1853, his parents being
John Calvin and Elizabeth (Woodson) McCoy, the former a native of Yin-
cennes, Indiana, and the latter of Kentucky. When Kansas City had scarcely
emerged from villagehood the father took up his abode here and was a sur-
veyor of the early days, surveying both the old town of Kansas City and West-
port. Employed in his professional capacity by the United States govern-
ment he fixed the old boundarv line at Fort Leavenworth and also surveved
and fixed the boundary lines of the Cherokee and Creek lands in the Indian
territory. Lie afterward purchased a farm in Kansas and carried on general
agricultural pursuits there for several years, after which he returned to
Kansas City, where he lived retired at his old home at No. 711 Olive street,
enjoying well caniccl rest aftci' many years of indefatigable toil and unflag-
ging perseverance. Both lie and bis wife died ;it the old home, where two
of their daughters, Miss McCoy and Mrs. Ilolloway, now reside.

John Calvin McCoy i)ursned hi,< early education in the public and pri-
vate school.-^ of Kansas City and at the age of seventeen years matriculated in
the Westminster College at Fulton. Missouri, where he remained as a studen^
for three years. Beturning home on the expiration of that period he entered
business life as a farmer in Jackson county. Tie was thus engaged
in farm labor for several years, after wliich lie l)egan work in the citv

J. C. McCOY.

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY :>10

as a bookkeeper for the grain lirm of ^'aiiglin A: Company, acting as their
head bookkeej>er for eight yeai-s. Resigning liis jx^ition. he start eii in
business on his own account as a grain merchant in partnership with Captain
N. P. Simonds. of Beloit. Kansas, under the tirm style of Sinionds. McCov Oc
Ctnnpany. They continued in the grain trade for several years and in that
period Mr. McCoy also became a live-stock dealer. In this line he entered
into partnership with his brother and the tirm name eventually became the
Rogers ».V: McCoy Live Stock Connnission Company, the brother selling his
intei-est and ivmoving to a farm in John^on county. Kansas, where he has
since made his home.

Withdrawing from the grain trade. Joh'.i C. McCoy concentrated b.is
energies upon the development and conduct of his live-stock business at the
stock yards here. The firm afterward became McCoy Brothers it Bass and
in a few yeai^ became the J. C. McCoy Commission Company, business being
conducted under that style throughout the remainder of J. C. McCoy "s con-
nection therewith. lie remained in the live-stock business throughout his
remaining days and passed away December 11. lOOo. after an illness of sev-
eral months. On the 20th of August. 1S87. he became a member of the
Stock Yards Exchange and was one of its most active representatives, serving
as its president in 1894-9 and 1898-9. lie frequeiuly i-epresented the ex-
change in the national association and often attended the specal meeting-s
of the exchange at Washington. D. C. He was widely recognized as one
of the leading live-stock men of Kansas City, in a district which is one of the
prominent centers for this department of business in the country.

On the loth of February. 1887. was celebrated the marriage of Mr.
McCoy and Miss Florida Mason, a daughter of Luther and Martha Mason,
both natives of Kentucky, whence they came to .Jackson county. Missoiu'i.
at an early day. settling near Blue Sprinag upon a farm, which is still known
locally as the Luther Mason farm. Theiv the father engaged in general
agricultural pursuits tnitil 1882. when he moved with his family to Kansas
City, where he lived retiivd throughout his remaining days, pa-sing away
here in 1890. His wife died many yeai"s before when they were living on
the old homestead. Three children were born luuo Mr. and Mrs. McC\v:
John Calvin, who resides at home and is a civil engineer for the Missouri,
Kansas it Texas Railway Company: ^lary Agnes and Matt ^Lison. who are
also with their mother.

In his political views Mr. Mason was a democrat but without aspiration
for otfice. In early life he became identified with the Knights of Pythicts
and both he and his wife were members of the Central Presbyterian church.
His social associations were always those of culture and refinement and he
was actuated throughoiu his life by high and manly principles. Li business
circles he was known for his thorough reliability and connnercial integrity
as well as for the marked enterprise that enabled him to work his way -stead-
ily upward until he became one of the mi>?t prominent and successful live-
stock merchants of Kansas City. In July. 1890. he built the comfortable re.s-
idenc-e at No. 919 Park avenue where Mrs. McCoy and her children reside,
enjo>-ing the comforts of life provided by the husband and father.

320 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

Perhaps no better testimonial of the life and eharacter of Mr. McCoy
can be given than the resolutions which were passed by the directors of the
Kansas City Live Stock Exchange December 12, 1905, and which reads as
follows: ''The familiar form and presence of our friend Jilin C. LleCoy
is henceforth withdrawn from the accustomed walk and our daily companion-
ship. The announcement of the fact brings innnediately to the appre-
hension a deeper sense of our loss than we took time to realize amidst the
hurry and distraction of these pursuits which we too often allow to usurp
the place of better things. John McCoy had a fuller knowledge of the his-
tory and legislation of the Exchange than any other member, and no one
gave so much of his time and energies to the promotion of those measures
which he considered would best insure progress, harmony and equality of
right and privileges to the individual members of the body. His executive
ability was exceedingly fine and he went carefully through the minutest detail
and form, sparing no labor to complete everything that passed through his
hands. Once convinced, he held steadfastly to conclusions Init always with
winning kindness. He possessed the rare faculty of keeping in subjection
personal feeling, and however arduous in. the advocacy of measures there
was no expression of temper or harshness of judgment. If he opposed your
views you always respected his sincerity and admired his ability. And if
in accord with him, you generally elected to leave the laljor with him.
Among other Exchanges and in the national body he held a de-ervedly high
place and was always heard with marked attention. John McCoy was a suc-
cess. Within his sphere he was faithful and constant to duty, and departing,
leaves to his family and friends tlie heritage of a good name — 'rather to be
chosen than great riches.' We ought to make more over the nuMiiory of .■<ncli
friends. It is not good to repress the natural tribute of our hearts and we
ought to be freer in yielding to the generous impulse to give honest expression
to honorable and honoring sentiments. Also let u< accciit the lesson it im-
presses, of courtesy and appreciation of each other, with a common purjiose
of extending to a higher standard of excellence in our every day life. We
bear ])rofound sympathy to the bereaved family of our friend and sincerely
share with them the sorrow of their ]iarting. invoking the highest ('ons!)latinn.
the healing that comes through Divine conii)assi()n.

"F. W. RoBixsox, President.
R. P. Wooniu'RY, Secretary.
The Kansas City Live Stock Kxchnnge.''

JAMES McCORD NAVE.

There liave been few residents who have exerted ns -trong and beneficial
an inlUience on tlie jinblic life of Kansas City as did .bnnes McCord Nave,
now deceased. He wa-; a representative of a ])ioneei- family here, and
throngliout the greater ])arl of his life was engaged in llie wholesale grocery
business, being connected with one of the largest connnercial enterprises of

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 321

the Missouri valley. It was not alone the extent and importance of his
business interests, however, that gained him rank with the foremost citizens
here. He was a student of the questions affecting the public welfare in
many ways, and stood ever for progress, reform and improvement. His
labors, too, were of a most practical character, and while he worked ever
toward the ideal, he had the ability to utilize the means nt hand in his
progress toward better conditions.

Mr. Nave was born in Savannah, Missouri, November 22, 1844. His
paternal grandparents, Henry and Mary (Brooks) Nave, removed from
Tennessee to Missouri in 1815 and settled in Saline county. Henry Nave
had just previously served his country as a soldier of the war of 1812. He
lived to see the country engage in two other sanguinary conflicts, and died
in Missouri in 1883 at the very advanced age of ninety-six years.

The parents of James McCord Nave were Abram and Lucy (McCord)
Nave, natives of Cocke county, Tennessee, and of Virginia respectively.
Brought to Missouri at a very early age, Abram Nave acquired his education
in one of the old-time log schoolhouses of Saline county, this state. For
many years he figured prominently in business circles, engaging in general
merchandising in Savannah, Missouri, in 1841. The enterprise proved
profitable, and in 1846 he and his brother-inlaw, James McCord, opened an-
other store in Oregon, Holt county, Missouri. From 1850 until 1857 Mr.
Nave was engaged in buying and shipping cattle, mules and other live-
stock. Locating at St. Joseph, Missouri, the firm of Nave, McCord & Com-
pany began business and so continued under that firm style until 1880,
when the business was incorporated as the Nave & McCord Mercantile Com-
pany, then the largest of the kind on the jSIissouri river. A successful be-
ginning enabled them to extend the field of their operations, and in 1860
they opened branch houses at Kansas City, Missouri, and at Omaha, Ne-
braska. In 1872 Mr. Nave removed to St. Louis, where he established the
wholesale grocery house of Nave & Goddard, which he conducted with profit
for many years. He was also connected with other business enterprises,
becoming a member of the firm of McCord, Braydon & Company, at Pueblo,
Colorado, a stockholder in the Henry Krug Packing Company of St. Joseph,
Missouri, and a member of the Nave-McCord Cattle Company, which owned
vast herds and over one hundred and twenty-five thousand acres of ranch
land in Texas. In 1883 Abram Nave left St. Louis and returned to St
Joseph, Missouri, where his remaining days w^ere passed in honorable retire-
ment from labor, his death there occurring June 23, 1898. He had long
survived his wife, who died in Savannah, Missouri, November 9, 1853. Mr.
Nave was widely recognized as one of the leading business men of the state,
whose efforts were directed along well defined lines of labor, and were char-
acterized by recognition and utilization of opportunity. He did not fear
that laborious attention to business so essential to sucess, and, moreover, he
had the power of combining and coordinating forces so that large results
were achieved.

James McCord Nave, when a youth of twelve years, became- a student
in the Masonic College at Lexington, Missouri, but only attended there for

322 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

a year, being obliged to discontinue his studies on account of trouble with
his eyes. Upon recovery he became a student in the ^Missouri State Uni-
versity and afterward in Bethany College in West A'irginia, then under the
presidency of its founder, Rev. Alexander Campbell, the promoter of the
Christian church. Upon completing his education he entered the wholesale
grocery house of Nave, McCord & Company at St. Joseph, Missouri, the
active managers thereof being his father and uncle, from whonx he received
his first lessons in a calling in which he himself became distinguished, their
best traits being reflected in his own life and subsequent business career.
After a year in St. Joseph he was sent to Omaha to take charge of the whole-
sale house owmed by the firm in that city, where he continued until 1867,
when he was admitted to a partnership in the business. He then came to
Kansas City to take charge of the wholesale house at this place, the business
here being conducted under the name of McCord, Nave & Company. James
M. Nave was a partner in and manager of the business here until it was
closed out in 1895, after w^hich he lived a retired life. During this long
period the business, which was carried on by the same partners in St. Joseph,
St. Louis, Omaha and Kansas City, was one of the most extensive transacted
by any mercantile firm in the country. In the control of the house here
James McCord Nave enjoyed the highest possible reputation for business
discernment, sagacious methods and spotless integrity. The growth of the
business at this place was commensurate with the growth of the city, and, in
fact, was established here at about the beginning of the development of
Kansas City. The growth and prosperity of every community depends upon
its commercial interests, and the wholesale grocery house of which he was the
head contributed in no small degree to the city's progress, drawing to it a large
trade. He was notably prompt, energetic and reliable and would tolerate the
employment of no business methods that could not bear close scrutiny.

Mr. Nave usually gave his political allegiance to the democracy, although
at local elections he sometimes cast an independent ballot. He believed in
placing the general good before partisanship and the public welfare before
personal aggrandizement, and his relation to Kansas City was at all times
that of a public-spirited man, deeply and sincerely interested in her welfare.
In 1874 he took an earnest stand in advocacy of a new city charter, and as
chairman of the committee of thirteen who reported that instrument, his
influence was potent in formulating measures which averted imminent numic-
ipal bankruptcy and preserved the city from lawlessness. While this subject
was under consideration he was often called upon to address public gatherings.
He frequently spoke to the Board of Trade, and his far-sighted, incisive
utterances ever commanded deep attention and awakened thoughtful consid-
eration. He was prominent in drafting a bill of ])ankru])tcy which became a
law. He figured prominently in those organizations formed to promote trade
interests. I^o was the first president of the Western Grocers' Association
and acted in that capacity for several years. He was also a member of the
Commercial Club, and several times was solicited to become its president,
but always refused to do so, although he took much interest in the club and

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 323

labored for the promotion of those measures for which it stood. He was also
a charter member of the Kansas City Club.

On the 7th of November, 1867, Mr. Nave was married, at Alton, Illinois,
to Miss Annie M. English. There were tAvo children by this marriage, James
Revel and Ada May, both still with their mother. The son was born in
Kansas City, December 24, 1873, and began his education in the public schools
here, after which he attended the military school at Peekskill-on-the-Hudson,
followed by study in the Andover (Mass.) Preparatory School and in the
Williams College at Williamstown, Massachusetts. When the plant of the
Eagle Manufacturing Company was removed from Davenport, Iowa, to Kan-
sas City and the company incorporated under the laws of Missouri in 1896,
he acquired an interest in the business and was made assistant secretary. The
following year he was advanced to the position of treasurer and continued as
the same for several years. Methodical in the conduct of business interests,
he is one of the most unassuming, yet one of the most capable and progressive
young business men of Kansas City, contributing much to its reputation for
enterprise and activity. He is connected with the University and Commer-
cial Clubs, and of both organizations he is a popular member.

During the last ten years of his life Mr. Nave lived retired save for the
supervision which he gave to his personal interests, which included properties
derived from or connected with the large mercantile interests which com-
manded his attention during his more active life. In 1905 he became ill and
went to Philadelphia for treatment, accompanied by his son, but he became
worse there and died in that city June 21, 1905. The death of such a man
is a distinct loss to any community. While his business interests were large,
gaining him success, they were also of a character that contributed to general
prosperity. He found time, too, to cooperate in measures for the public good,
and he exerted a widely felt influence in behalf of improvement, holding to
high ideals of citizenship as well as of commercial honor and individual in-
tegrity. The old Nave homestead on West Tenth street is known by every
pioneer of Kansas City, it being the family residence for a long period, or
until a few years ago, when an elegant new home was erected at 4300 McGee
street. There Mrs. Nave and her children now reside, and the family are not
only wealthy, but are numbered among the most prominent in social circles.

SAMUEL F. SCOTT, JR.

Samuel F. Scott, filling the position of city gas inspector in Kansas
City, is a veteran of the Spanish- American war and is now serving as com-
mander of the organization of United Spanish War Veterans of the Depart-
ment of Missouri. He is a son of the late Colonel Samuel F. Scott, former
postmaster of Kansas City and one of the soldiers of the Civil war, whose
sketch appears elsewhere in this volume.

Samuel F. Scott, Jr., was the eldest child and only son of the family.
His birth occurred in Kansas City, August 6, 1877, and he was educated

324 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

in the public schools and also in military schools of Missouri and New York.
He likewise pursued a course in bookkeeping at the Spalding Business Col-
lege in Kansas City and subsequently filled the position of clerk in the post-
office. Later he was secretary of the board of health and in April, 190G,
was appointed to his present position of city gas inspector. It will thus be
seen that throughout the entire period of his business career he has been
connected with the public service and that he is capable, efficient and loyal
is never a matter of question. In the discharge of his duties he systematizes
his work and is prompt and accurate, thas winning high encomiums from
those to whom he is responsible in the discharge of his duties.

At the time of the Spanish-American war Mr. Scott offered his services
to the government, enlisting on the 14th of May, 1898, as a quartermaster
sergeant of the Third Missouri Volunteers. He served through the war and
is popular among those who also defended American interests in that con-
flict, being honored by his comrades in Missonri by election as department
commander of the United Sj^anish War Veterans. He possesses a social
genial nature and has an extensive circle of warm friends, numbering many
who have known him from his boyhood to the present time.

CHURCHILL J. WHITE.

In a history of Kansas City's banking interests it is not only compat-
ible but imperative that mention should be made of Churchill J. White, for
he was one of the pioneer business men of this character here, arriving in
April, 1865, from which time he was continuously associated with banking
interests luitil his retirement as a wealthy man many years later. Many
who were associated with him in his life's activities speak of him in terms of
praise because of his unfaltering fidelity to high busines> principles and
commercial ethics. He was a native of Woodford county, Kentucky, born
June 7, 1825. His father, William White, always resided in Woodford
county, spending his last days there, his death, however, occurring Avhen
his son Churchill was quite young. The mother with her children subse-
quently removed to Clay county, Missouri, and, purchasing a farm near the
town of Tviberty, the county seat, she there reared her family and made her
home until she was called to her final rest.

Churchill J. White acquired his education in the public schools of Ken-
tucky and Missouri. He continued his residence at Liberty until 1865, wlien
he arrived in Kansas City and became cashier of the Kansas City Savings
Association, at which time there were but four stockholders in the institu-
tion. He continued as casliier there for several years and his enterprise
contributed in suhstantial measure to the growth of the husiness. He next
became connected with the Bank of Commerce and remained one of its stock-
holders and as cashier until 1805. when he was chosen to the presidencv of
the Citizens National Bank, remaining at the head of that institution for
two years. He next became interested in the Metropolitan National Bank

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HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 327

and was a stockholder therein until because of ill health he gave up all bus-
iness cares and retired. He was thoroughly conversant with the banking
business in principle and detail and in business circles bore an unsullied repu-
tation.

Mr. White was married in Liberty, Missouri, in 1847, to Miss America
Adkins, a daughter of Robert Adkins, who was a farmer by occupation, and
to them were born three children. Of the two who reached years of matur-
ity, Sallie B. married John Sydner and died in 1894. She had three chil-
dren, only one of whom i-i now" living, namely: Churchill. Churchill A.
White, son of our subject, married Miss Elizabeth Gentry, of Independence,
Missouri, a daughter of Overton H. and Elizabeth (Henley) Gentry. They
were both natives of Kentucky and came to Jackson county at an early day,
purchasing a farm near Independence, where Mr. Gentry carried on general
agricultural pursuits for about twenty years. He was also prominent in
political circles, exercising much influence in that direction. He died in
December, 1907, and is still survived by his widow, who yet resides in Inde-
pendence. Unto Churchill A. White and wife has been born one child,
Beryl, now seven years of age. He is engaged in the lumber business in
Liberty, Missouri, and also has business interests in Kansas City. He re-
sides a part of the time in the latter place, living at his grandfather's old
home on Independence avenue.

During the Civil war, Churchill J. White sensed for a time as a lieu-:
tenant in the Eighty-second Regiment Missouri Volunteers, and was after-
ward transferred to the Fourth Regiment as adjutant and captain, serving
with that rank at Chillicothe and Liberty. On the 4th of August, 1864, he
resigned his commission and returned home. Following his retirement from
business he traveled extensively for the benefit of his health but died on the
19th of July, 1907. During the early period of his residence in Kansas
City he was elected to represent his ward in the city council and ser\'ed in
the municipal legislative body for many years, exercising his official prerog-
atives in support of much that w^as beneficial and progres.'^ive in the com-
munity. His political views were in harmony with the principles of the
democracy and he gave to the party stanch support at the polls. Fraternally
he was a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.

Mrs. White owns a beautiful home at No. 2114 Independence avenue,
where she now resides and her grandson makes his home with her when in
the citv. He is a member of the Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks.

JOHN BURKE PRIDDY.

John B. Priddy, who passed from this life in October, 1894, was a native
of Floyd county, Virginia, where his birth occurred April 26, 1832. He had,
therefore reached the age of sixty-two years when called to his final rest. His
father, Burke Priddy, was also a native of Virginia, and there married Miss
Catherine Zentmeyer. They became the parents of five children, all of whom

328 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

were born in the Old Dominion, and during the early boyhood of their son
John they removed from Virginia to Ohio, the family home being established
in Warren county. The father owned a plantation and a number of slaves in
Virginia, but followed the profession of teaching in Ohio.

John B. Priddy, of his review, was largely reared in the Buckeye state
and was indebted to the public school system for the early educational priv-
ileges he enjoyed. His more advanced intellectual training was received in
the Turtle Creek Academy and in the Lebanon (Ohio) Normal School. He
afterward engaged in teaching and the time which is usually spent in recrea-
tion and social enjoyment by those who are in business life after the cares of
the day are over, were devoted by him to the study of law preparatory to
becoming an active member of the legal profession. That he had mastered
many of the principles of jurisprudence was indicated by his admission to the
Ohio bar. He then engaged in practice in Washington Courthouse, Fayette
county, and was very successful in his legal career, his ability wdnning him
a large and distinctively representative clientage He served as mayor of the
city for two terms, and later as prosecuting attorney there for sometime, and
was afterward judge of the probate court for twelve years. He was well
known in legal circles from Columbus to Cincinnati, and while he displayed
few of those dazzling meteoric qualitias that sometimes distinguish the lawyer,
he possessed the more substantial qualities which shine with continuity and
can always be depended upon. At length his health failed him, and because
of this he removed w-estward to AVichita, Kansas, where his sons were then
engaged in business.

Mr. Priddy had been married in Rutland, Vermont, in 1866, to Miss
Lora Rockwell Mortrom, of Pittsfield, Vermont, a daughter of Moses and Lora
(Rockwell) Mortrom, both of whom were natives of the Green Mountain
state. The father was superintendent of marble quarries at West Rutland,
Vermont, where he continued in business until called to his final rest. Unto
Mr. and Mrs. Priddy was born one child, Bruce Mortrom, who is now engaged
in the real-estate business in Kansas City.

In his social relations Mr. Priddy was connected with the Independent
Order of Odd Fellows, was a past grand master and, in fact, was almost con-
tinuously in some state office in connection with the lodge, for he was very
prominent in the organization. In politics he was also widely known as a
stalwart advocate of the repul)lican jiarty and an active worker in its ranks.
He frequently attended the state conventions as a delegate and his opinions
carried weight in the councils of his party, for they recognized in him an
unswerving champion of its interests and imc whose patriotic citizenship wa-
above question. His last days were spent in Wichita, Kansas, where he passed
away in October, 1894.

Mrs. Priddy now lives in Kansas City Avith her son, their home being at
No. 3521 Forest street. Bruce M. Priddy has been continuously connected
with real-estate interests here since his removal to the city in November, 1903,
not only engaging in the purchase and sale of property, but also in speculative
building, erecting many cottages and bu.siness houses. He is secretary of the
Real Estate Exchange. Mrs. Priddy is a member of the Colonial Dames and

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 329

also belongs to the Westport Baptist church, and in the membership of both
has gained many warm friends by those who appreciate the womanly qualities
of culture and kindliness which she displays.

REV. WILLIAM JAMES DALTON.

Rev. AVilliam James Dalton, rector of the Church of the Annunciation
in Kansas City, was born August 12, 1848, in St. Louis, Missouri, the son of
Richard and Bridget (Delaney) Dalton, who were natives of Ireland. The
father, a well educated man, was a prominent merchant of St. Louis between
the years 1839 and 1864, and was one of the first to introduce Irish linen into
that city. He died in 1877, his wife surviving him for ten years.

Father Dalton of this review attended the parochial schools and after-
ward entered St. Louis University, but his studies in that institution were
interrupted by the closing of the school during the Civil war. He then con-
tinued his studies in church seminaries in Milwaukee and Cape Girardeau,
Wisconsin, and was a classmate of Bishops Bonacum, Hennessey, Cotter and
Shanley. At Cape Girardeau he was the youngest member of his class, and
after a rigid examination in the studies of the college he was accorded a
scholarship in the American College at Rome. Two and a half years before he
attained his majority he was ordained to the priesthood by the Right Rev. Jo-
seph P. Machboef, bishop of Denver, by special dispensation procured from
Rome through Archbishop Kenrick. Following his ordination to the priest-
hood Father Dalton was assistant in the Church of the Annunciation in St.
Louis, and on the 29th of June, 1872, by appointment of Archbishop Kenrick,
he became rector of the lately organized Annunciation parish in Kansas City.
In 1894, on the twenty-fifth anniversary of his ordination, a celebration was
held, attended by Bishops Fink, Bonacum, Scannell, Burke, Dunn and Hen-
nessey and about one hundred and fifty priests. Afterward a reception was
tendered Father Dalton in the Auditorium theater and was most largely
attended, Hon. J. V. C. Karnes presiding. Congratulatory addresses were
delivered by many prominent citizens and the occasion was long to be remem-
bered by all. It was a fitting honor to one who had served so long and faith-
fully in developing the interests of Kansas City, not only along moral lines
but also in municipal affairs tending for the betterment of conditions for the
city at large.

Father Dalton has been a most ardent worker for better conditions
among his parishioners and his advice has been sought by many upon busi-
ness and financial matters. He has labored untiringly for the welfare of those
who have come under his guidance, and at the same time his influence is
not an unknown factor for the benefit of the community at large. In 1889
he was one of the freeholders appointed to draft the present city charter. He
was among the first to advocate the park system and held official positions in
several organizations promoting that object. He is a member of the Humane
Society and of the Provident Association and is a stalwart champion of many

330 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

measures commanding his interest. He has served as vice president of the
Humane Society from it-s organization and has been a director of the Provi-
dent Association for a number of years. He was a leader in the effort which
resulted in the establishment of the Kansas City Manual Training School
and was prominent among the founders of the Catholic Columbian summer
school, which meets annually at stated points. From the beginning he. has
served as one of its directors and its vice president and is president of its
board of studies, and also president of the Reading Circle Unions, established
in many cities.

Father Dalton has made frequent valuable contributions to the literature
of the period. From 1879 to 1884 he was editor of the Western Banner, the
first Catholic journal published in Kansas City. In 1894 he published a
pamphlet containing a series of sermons and lectures on various topics, and in
1897 issued a series of discourses on Biblical topics under the title of "The
Mistakes That Moses Didn't Make." In the same year, in book form, he
published historical sketches of Kansas City. He has written largely for
leading journals and magazines of the country, but his most important literary
work is a "History of Missouri," which has been in preparation for many
years. In this work in search of material he has searched the libraries of
France, Germany, England and Spain, and has been favored with the corre-
spondence of the Spanish government officials and with photographs of original
documents, from which he has gleaned much hitherto unpublished matter
This work is now nearing completion and will prove a most valued addition to
historical literature of the state. Father Dalton is widely recognized as a
broad-minded man on political, religious and social questions, a tireless worker
and patriotic and zealous citizen, and the warm-hearted congenial gentleman
is loved by all who know him, whether people of his own faith or otherwise.

EDWARD F. SWINNEY.

Edward F. Swinney, president of the First National Bank of Kansas
City and president of the American Bankers' Association, needs no intro-
duction to the readers of this volume, nor would the history of the city be
complete without the record of his life, which had its beginning in the little
town of Marysville, Campbell county, Virginia, August 1, 1857. His early
educational advantages were those afforded by the common schools and later
he attended Blaekburg Military Academy at Blackburg, Virginia. He had
no college training such as is deemed essential as a preparation for life's
practical duties at the present time, but in the school of experience he has
learned many valuable lessons, while reading, observation and experience
have continually broadened his mind concerning those lines of thought and
activity which engage the attention of the world l)ut which have not come
under his direct ol)servation.

On leaving the Blackburg Academy in November, 1875, he sought op-
portunity for the exercise of his industry and energy — his dominant qualities

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 331

— in the middle west, starting ont in life on his own account at Fayette,
Missouri, in February, 1876, when eighteen years of age. Not specially trained
for any line of business, he eagerly accepted anything which would give him
a start and at a salary of twenty dollars per month, from which sum he paid
all expenses, he began work as a delivery boy in a grocery store. His hours
of labor were from early morning until late at night, as there were no unions
then to regulate the time nor the wage and Mr. Swinney felt satisfied with
his position. He could not remain satisfied save as it gave him a start, for he
possessed an ambition that could never be content with mediocrity, but must
continually Avork for something better. This has been characteristic of his
entire life and has been manifest in every relation, his entire career being
one of progress. When a little more than a year had passed in the grocery
store Mr. Swinney secured an advance in salary to twenty-five dollars per
month in connection with a clerkship in a dry-goods store, where he re-
mained with increased salary until the 15th of August, 1878. In the mean-
time he had decided definitely that he wished to enter the field of banking
and. learning of a vacancy in a Fayette bank, he applied for and obtained
the position, there remaining until September, 1882. A change of position
brought him promotion at Rich Hill, Missouri, and when a year later a bank
at Colorado City, Texas, was organized with Fayette capital, Mr. Swinney was
offered the position of cashier. He accepted and remained as the chief em-
ploye of the Colorado City institution until March 1, 1887, when he entered
upon active connection with the banking interests of Kansas City as cashier
of the First National Bank. Thoroughness has ever characterized all of
his work.

From the beginning of his connection with banking he made it his pur-
pose to master the business in principle and detail and his unfaltering diligen<;e
and close application won him continued advancement until after a service
of thirteen years as cashier of the First National he was elected to the presi-
dency of what is now one of the strongest financial institutions of the west.
He is justly accounted one of Kansas City's leading business men and conserv-
ative financiers. In matters of business policy his judgment is sound and
reliable and w^hile he does not jump at conclusions he forms his plans readily
and is determined in their execution. He has ever regarded a banking posi-
tion as one of special trust and with the utmost care has safeguarded the in-
terests placed in his hands. He has wrought, too, along modern business
lines for the growth and development of the institution of which he is now
chief executive officer and the increase of its business is attributable in large
degree to his labors, to his keen insight and his ability to combine and coordi-
nate forces. When asked on a certain occasion how best to obtain success
he said, ''To the young man who wants to succeed I would only give this brief
little creed: Show to his employer that he has his interests at heart in every-
thing. No man is so hard that he does not become interested in a young fel-
low whom he knows is interested in him. Make a little and save a little and
you will soon have a capital to start on, though it may be small." Whether
Mr. Swinney had formulated this creed at the beginning of his career is

332 HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY

not known but it Is a fact that its embodiment has been found in his own
life record.

He ha.< not confined his attentions alone to banking, although he has
attained distinguished honors in financial circles, but has been a potent factor
in the control and successful outcome of various other business concerns. In
former years he was one of the directors of the Chicago & Alton Railroad
Company and was on the directorate of the Fidelity Trust Company and the
Missouri Savings Bank.

Municipal progress has always been a matter of deep interest to him
and many progressive movements have won his active cooperation and sub-
stantial aid. For many years he served as treasurer of the Kansas City
school board and has always been prominent in the Commercial Club, an or-
ganization which more than any other has made Kansas City the important
industrial and commercial center which it is today. A well merited honor
came to him in banking circles when in 1905 he was made president of the
American Bankers' Association, being thus chosen as a national leader of
the financiers of the country. Moreover he has never confined his attention
to business interests alone, thereby narrowing his nature to a single groove,
but on the contrary has kept in close touch with the world's thought and
progress. His reading has been broad and of a varied character; he enjoys
sports and is a member of the Country Club of Kansas City. Geniality is
one of his marked characteristics and he accords to all the courtesy of an inter-
view. Men give him not only their admiration for what he has accomplished
but their respect because of the methods he has followed and their friendship
because of the genuine personal worth that he has manifested in every re-
lation of life. His advancement from a humble position in the business
world to one of national prominence has been but the merited and well
earned recognition of his ability.

GEORGE C. S^NIITH.

George C. Smitli, who stood a.>< the executive head of the Smith-McCord-
Townsend Dry Goods Company, controlling the most extensive wholesale
dry goods trade of Kansas City, seemed to have accomplished througliout
his busines.s career the utmost possibility of success at any given point. With-
out one esoteric phase, his record was tliat of a man who, with clear concep-
tion and unfaltering determination, works toward the high standard which
he sets uj). A native son of Missouri, Mr. Smith was born August 6, 1848,
in Cooper county, and the experiences of farm life were his in his boyhood
and youth. The country schools afforded him hi.* educational opj)ortunities
and when twenty-one years of age he became a salesman in the general store
of Hoblitzell & Judd at Milton, Atchison county, Missouri, where he continued
for a year and a half. On the expiration of that period he accepted a posi-
tion in the wholesale dry goods store of Lemon, Hosea &: Company at St.
Joseph, Mi.ssouri, and remained as assistant salesman and buyer with the

GEORGE C. SMITH.

PUB^iC LIBRARY

ASTOR, LENOX
TILDTN FC'ir-'BATIONS

HISTORY OF KANSAS CITY 335

new firm when the original proprietor sold out to Milton Tootle, John S.
Brittain and John Ovelman. Another change in the partnership occurred
three years later, Mr. Smith becoming a partner in the enterprise under the
style of John S. Brittain & Company. After six years of successful pro-
prietorship he sold his interest in the ""firm and turned his attention to the
wholesale groceiy business in Kansas City under the firm name of Smith-
Heddens & Company. After five years devoted to that enterprise he again
sold out and once more became a resident of St. Joseph, where he entered into
partnership with John S. Brittain in the wholesale dry goods business under
the firm name of Brittain, Smith & Company, which firm succeeded Brittain-
Richardson & Company and also bought out the AVood Manufacturing Com-
pany. Thus in connection with the conduct of a wholesale dry goods estab-
ment the company engaged in the manufacture of overalls and shirts, Mr.
Smith acting as general manager of both concerns. His association with
commercial and industrial interests of St. Joseph thus continued until 1893,
when he disposed of his interest and became a partner of James McCord,
president of the Nave-McCord Mercantile Company of St. Joseph, and John
Townsend of the Townsend-Wyatt Dry Goods Company, under the name
of the Smith-McCord Dry Goods Company. The newly organized company
opened a wholesale dry goods establishment on the 1st of September, 1893,
at the corner of Seventh and Wyandotte streets in Kansas City and such
was the growth of the business during the succeeding decade that in 1903
it became necessary to obtain larger quarters and an extensive block was
erected at the corner of Seventh and Central streets. On moving into the
new quarters, in January, 1903, the name of the company was changed to
the Smith-McCord-Townsend Dry Goods Company. By this time the busi-
ness had taken rank as one of the largest wholesale dry-goods interests of
Kansas City. The partners were all men of wide experience, of progressive
views and firm purpose, and with Mr. Smith in the position of president and
the executive head of the house, the interests were most carefuUy controlled
and the trade constantly increased in extent and importance.

On the 8th of June, 1880, was celebrated the marriage of George C.
Smith and Miss Mattie Heddens, a daughter of Dr. W. I. Heddens, of St.
Joseph, Missouri. Three children were born unto them : Irving H. George
C. and Catherine. The death of the husband and father occurred at his
home at No. 720 Highland avenue, February 4, 1906, after an illness of
several months. He was a man of domestic taste, w^ho found his greatest
happiness at his own fireside with his family around him. He was continu-
ally planning for the interests and welfare of his wife and children and was
equally loyal in his friendships. At the same time he was a citizen whose
public spirit made his service of the utmost value in promoting measures of
general importance. He w^as for several years a director of the Commercial
Club, of Convention Hall and of the Provident A.ssociation. He was elected
to the presidency of the Commercial Club at the last annual election preced-
ing his demise but was compelled to resign on accou